Call him Superman or Aquaman, 10-year-old Clark Kent Apuada from California has grabbed eyeballs after he won seven events at the Far West International Swimming Championship on Sunday. But that is not why he's popular on social media.
The young Filipino-American swimmer made heads turn when he beat Michael Phelps’ 23-year-old record in the 100-meter butterfly event. Apuada, who swims for the Monterey County Aquatic Team in California finished with a time of 1:09:38, more than a second faster than Phelps.
“Most people just call me Clark, but now when I beat Michael Phelps’ record, they have started calling me Superman,” Clark, who has his eye set on the 2024 Olympics, told CBS News .
Coach Dia Riana admitted that the kid was special. “This kid is unlike any other young man that I’ve ever coached. He has always stood out,” Riana said.
Clark Kent is more just than a swimmer. “He does piano lessons, he does martial arts, and at school, if there’s a computer class, coding, or STEM programs, he’s always joining,” Clark’s father Chris told CNN .
He has also earned himself a special fan. His feat did not go unnoticed by Michael Phelps, who tweeted on Thursday, ”Big congrats to #clarkkent for smashing that meet record!!! Keep it up dude!! #dreambig”
