Evans Returns With a Splash; Carvin Wins Men’s Freestyle Title

Janet Evans returned to competitive swimming with a convincing victory in the 800-meter freestyle Wednesday in the first session of competition in the National Swimming Championships.

Evans was hardly challenged in winning in eight minutes, 34.99 seconds, almost 10 seconds ahead of Sarah Anderson of San Ramon, who was second in 8:44.38.

“This was my first race since the Olympics,” Evans said, “so it felt good just to compete. My main goal at this point is to have fun and if I go fast as well, that’s great.”

Evans has won 31 individual national championships, tying her with Charlie Daniels for third place on the career list. Daniels was a member of the 1896 and 1900 U.S. Olympic teams. Tracy Caulkins leads with 48 and Johnny Weissmuller has 36.

Chad Carvin of Laguna Hills claimed his first national title by winning the men’s 800-meter freestyle in 8:10.70.