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16-year-old Max Zhao recently competed at the Mel Zajac Jr. International Swim Meet in Vancouver. (Image Credit: Facebook/ PA Sharks)
Swimming

16-year-old makes big splash at International competition, smashes club records

Jun 9, 2026 | 2:04 PM

Prince Albert Sharks swimmer Max Zhao has earned international recognition and smashed several club records.

The 16-year-old competed at the Mel Zajac Jr. International Swim Meet in Vancouver, B.C., which is regarded as one of Western Canada’s premier swimming competitions.

Competing in the Open Men’s category against some of the strongest swimmers from across Canada and beyond, Zhao demonstrated exceptional skill, determination, and composure.

His performances earned him qualification for the finals in both the 400m individual medley and the 200m backstroke.

Zhao also broke three Prince Albert Sharks club records in the 200m butterfly, 200m backstroke and 400m individual medley.

What makes this achievement even more remarkable is that some of these records had stood for more than 24 years.

“Max’s achievements at the Mel Zajac International Swim Meet are truly exceptional,” said the Prince Albert Sharks coaching staff. “To qualify for finals and break multiple club records—some of which have stood for over two decades—is an incredible accomplishment. We are extremely proud of his hard work and determination.”

nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @nigelmaxwell