Summer McIntosh's willingness to further challenge herself may lead to more history at upcoming worlds

Summer McIntosh has learned to manage hectic competition schedules better over the years.

And with that has come a willingness to further challenge herself.

The 18-year-old from Toronto has her sights set on wins in five events at the upcoming world aquatics championships in Singapore. McIntosh won four medals (three gold, one silver) at the Paris Olympics last year in her usual four events — the 200 individual medley, 200 butterfly, 400 individual medley and 400 freestyle.

Adding the 800 freestyle has brought some added motivation this year.

"I'm always kind of juggling all four strokes, which is always a good time in training how to figure that out, along with adding in the 800," she said. "I've focused a little bit more on distance training. (...) It's never going to hurt when you're trying to finish a 400 free or a 400 IM, let alone an 800.

"But I think overall, I am just excited to see how I manage doing five events, which I've never done before on the world level. I did four in Paris and I think to add this new challenge this year really kept me motivated, so I'm excited to see how that goes."

WATCH | McIntosh reach for next challenge at worlds: 

Summer McIntosh is 'super pumped' to swim at the world championships in Singapore

McIntosh, who owns eight world championship medals, including four golds between the 200 butterfly and 400 individual medley, had a few reasons for adding the 800 freestyle to her schedule at worlds, with the swimming events set to start July 26. The championships run from Friday to Aug. 3.

She said facing Katie Ledecky would be an "awesome challenge" and said the American "being so strong in her top form right now this season is also really cool to see." Ledecky owns the world record and