Canada's Josh Liendo relishing 'nuts' Tollcross atmosphere
Canada’s Josh Liendo is unfazed at the prospect of walking into the cauldron of Tollcross International Swimming Centre at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.
Liendo enjoyed a medal-laden summer at Birmingham 2022.
He had four trips to the podium, including earning his maiden senior individual title in the 100m Butterfly, which followed a silver and two bronzes at the world championships earlier in the season.
“People call it my breakout summer,” the 23-year-old (pictured) said.
“I was at the Olympics the year before but that was me gaining experience, making semis. I was able to go past that and get a medal at worlds.
“Then I carried that momentum and medalled at Commonwealth Games.
“It was good and a very exciting summer and it’s a full-circle moment here. I’m just excited to give it another go.”
Liendo soared to silver in the 100m Butterfly at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and finished fourth in the 50m Freestyle, just 0.02 seconds behind France’s bronze medallist Florent Manaudou.
The home swimmers raised the roof at La Defense Arena two years ago and Liendo welcomes the prospect of another electric atmosphere in the pool.
“I was in Paris and I was racing Maxime Grousset and Florent Manaudou so I’ve been in an arena where you’re not the favourite,” he said.
“I love the atmosphere. I like the crowd going nuts in general so I’m here for it. I’m ready.”
Leading from the front
Backstroke specialist Kylie Masse (CAN) won three titles among nine medals across two Commonwealth Games in 2018 and 2022.
The 30-year-old and Liendo were among four athletes selected as Canadian team captains, along with three-time Paralympian Alec Elliot and Olympian Sophie Angus.
The quartet were chosen by their teammates as Swimming Canada continues its athlete-led leadership model.
Masse described her selection as “an incredible honour” and looked back on the guidance and expertise she received from veteran team members.
“I valued that when I was at the beginning of my career, so I hope to be that person for those new to the team,” she said.
“To just be an open book to my experiences and to hope that I can help them prepare in the best way possible (so) that they can see success here.”
The Canadian swimming team at Glasgow 2026 comprises 12 Olympic and 12 Para athletes.
The Swimming competition starts on 24 July. For the full schedule, click here.
