He went on to swim in the final of the 4×200-metre freestyle with Ian Thorpe, Michael Klim and Bill Kirby.

The Aussies led from start to finish, setting another world record and achieving every child's dream of winning gold for Australia.

Pearson was awarded the Order of Australia medal for contribution to sport for this effort.

After Sydney in 2000, Pearson won gold medals at the 2002 Pan Pacific Swimming Championships and the 2002 Commonwealth Games.

Pearson later represented Australia in the 4×200-metre freestyle relay in the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, winning a silver medal.