McKenzie Coan– of Clarkesville, Georgia- broke the Paralympic S8 Class American Record in the 1650y free today at the Navy Invite, dropping 50 seconds off her best time to touch in 20:07.09. The previous mark of 20:24.78 was set by Brickell Bro on March 1, 2015 in Denver Colorado. This is the third concurrent individual American Record for Coan. She also holds the record in the 1000y free (11:5.37) and 200y back (2:35.92).
Coan- missed out on making the 2008 Paralympic games in Beijing, but did compete at the 2012 London Paralympic Games, placing sixth in the 400m free.
Coan was diagnosed with osteogenesis imperfecta as an infant. It’s a genetic disorder that weakens bones and causes them to break without apparent reason. She took up swimming at the age of six and found herself thriving in the sport. Coan has broken over 35 bones in her lifetime, including her foot and back while swimming.
McKenzie Coan, we met you almost 2 years ago when my son first started with Cumming Waves Swim Team. You are absolutely incredible and we talk about you and your amazing accomplishments a lot in our home! Swim on, rockstar! Can’t wait to hear what the next meet holds!
Great job Mackenzie. I’m proud of you.
We are so proud of you!
CWGA Swim Team