Aussie open water swim queen Johnson triumphs at Pan Pacs

Australian open water swimmer Moesha Johnson delivered a commanding performance to win the Pan Pacific Championships 10km title in Long Beach, California. Racing on the same waterfront designated for the 2028 Olympics, the 28-year-old secured the gold medal with a time of one hour, 55 minutes, and 33 seconds. Johnson established her lead by the second lap and maintained it throughout the race, finishing more than 26 seconds ahead of silver medalist Airi Ebina of Japan. Ichika Kajimoto of Japan took bronze, while fellow Australian Jacqueline Davison-McGovern finished fifth in the 23-competitor field.

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I really wanted to have a dominating race on American soil leading into LA '28.

Johnson expressed her desire for a dominant performance on American soil, stating, "I really wanted to have a dominating race on American soil leading into LA '28." She added, "Even when I was well ahead at the end I just wanted to keep putting on a show for everyone." The victory extends Johnson's remarkable 2026 season, during which she has achieved a perfect record in all four World Cup 10km races and all four 3km races. The 2024 Olympic silver medalist is also a three-time world champion.

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Even when I was well ahead at the end I just wanted to keep putting on a show for everyone.

"I really wanted to win going into the race today, and it's a strong group of girls, they're really fit and everyone's in really good shape," Johnson commented after her win. She noted the importance of managing her effort, saying, "Realistically I had to keep an eye on where my heart rate and my effort was sitting and Jacqui (Davison-McGovern) was there at my feet the whole way." Johnson indicated she had the necessary speed to increase her pace when needed, ensuring her victory.

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I really wanted to win going into the race today, and it's a strong group of girls, they're really fit and everyone's in really good shape.