[1] It was the first appearance of a women's event in Olympic swimming, followed closely by the 4×100 metre free relay.

The competition was held from Monday to Friday, 8 to 12 July 1912.

Durack also won the gold medal, with compatriot Wylie close behind for silver.

Belle Moore, swimming in the first heat, set the first Olympic record with 1 minute 29.8 seconds.

The top two from each heat and the faster of the two third place swimmers advanced.