Michael Phelps looked like his old self in his first race at the 2016 U.S. Olympic swimming trials, posting the fastest time in the preliminary heats of the 200-meter butterfly Tuesday in Omaha, Neb.
The time itself was nothing special, at 1:56.68, but Phelps cruised in a heat that included his fellow 2012 Olympian in the event, Tyler Clary (1:57.42).
The 200 fly is Phelps' signature race. He first set a world record in the event at age 15 in 2001 and has broken it seven times since.
Phelps and Clary will be among 16 swimmers competing in the 200 fly semifinals Tuesday night, with the final to follow Wednesday evening.