New Delhi, Aug. 16 -- Australian Lani Pallister produced one of the biggest moments in recent swimming history on Saturday night, handing American great Katie Ledecky her first major international loss in the 800m freestyle. The 24-year-old led from start to finish and held off a late challenge to win in 8:06.10 at the Pan Pacific Championships in Irvine, California. Ledecky, the long-time queen of the event, touched second in 8:07.26.

Lani Pallister never trailed. She controlled the race from the opening length and forced the nine-time Olympic gold medallist to chase. For the first time in a major international final, Ledecky's trademark late surge was not enough. The Australian punched the water in celebration after touching the wall a...