7 Marine Creatures Faster Than Michael Phelps
Discovery is taking its Shark Week shenanigans to the next level this year by setting up a 100-meter open-water race between Michael Phelps and a great white shark. Phelps, the most decorated Olympian of all time, has been recorded at speeds exceeding 6 mph, an absolutely incredible feat for a human. But, he’s only human. Even with the aid of a monofin, Phelps likely doesn’t stand a chance against a creature bred by evolution for speed and agility in the water — great white sharks have been recorded at 25 mph in short bursts. Here are eight other marine animals that are faster than Phelps.
READ MORE: 15 Facts You Didn't Know About Great White Sharks
Blue Whale
iStockphotoA blue whale's tongue can weigh as much as an elephant.
Even this marine mammoth — known as the largest creature to ever live on Earth — could beat us humans in a race.
Max speed: 30 mph
Weight: 300,000 pounds
Shortfin Mako
iStockphotoMako sharks are known for their ability to jump into fishing boats.
Also known as a bonito shark, the shortfin mako is known for its speed — there’s even a roller coaster named after it at SeaWorld.
Max speed: 31 mph
Weight: 300 pounds
Bottlenose Dolphin
iStockphotoBottlenose dolphins can leap as high as 20 feet into the air.
Divers know these elusive cetaceans can swim away quickly if they’ve ever tried to snap a photo of one.
Max speed: 17 mph
Weight: 1,000 pounds
Leatherback Sea Turtle
iStockphotoThe leatherback sea turtle can trace its evolutionary history back 100 million years.
Don’t let these dudes’ chill demeanor fool you — they can book it, if necessary.
Max speed: 22 mph
Weight: 600 pounds
California Sea Lion
iStockphotoSea lions can dive down for more than 10 minutes before coming up for air.
Hop into the water with these playful rascals and they’ll put their speed on full display.
Max speed: 25 mph
Weight: 200 pounds
Killer Whale
iStockphotoKiller whales use echolocation to hunt.
It’s no surprise that these deft predators are lightning-quick in the water.
Max speed: 34 mph
Weight: 10,000 pounds
Sailfish
iStockphotoSailfish are considered the fastest fish in the ocean.
Does that sound too fast to be true? This video will change your mind.
Max speed: 68 mph
Weight: 200 pounds
