Dansk Svømmeunion VM-trio imponerer sportschef

 

Sportschef i Dansk Svømmeunion, Lars Robl, gør VM-status.

Af: Klaus Bach Christensen

Efter seks dage fyldt med stærke danske præstationer er det sidste VM-svømmetag nu taget. Undervejs har de tre deltagende landsholdssvømmere badet sig i danske rekordløb, personlige forbedringer og ikke mindst finaler samt semifinaler.

Ikke overraskende er det en glad, meget tilfreds og fortrøstningsfuld sportschef, der gør status. Lars Robl siger:

”Jeg er stolt af svømmerne og trænerne, som gik fokuseret til opgaven og har præsteret over, hvad jeg umiddelbart forventede. En samlet PR-procent på knap 90% er ganske enkelt imponerende på det her niveau. Samtidig viser pigernes præstationer, at vi lagde det ”rigtige snit” i forhold til kravtider, hvilket understøtter arbejdet hen mod etableringen af den ønskede præstationskultur. Og i den forbindelse er det vigtigt at notere sig, at samtlige piger svømmede sig i én eller flere finaler.”

”På en af sportens største scener fortsætter svømmernes deres individuelle udvikling, som blandt andet resulterer i to danske rekorder. Det er skridt i retningen mod at indfri deres resultatpotentiale til de olympiske lege i 2024 – og særligt i 2028, som jeg har store forventninger til.”

”Mesterskabet har givet os yderligere indsigt i svømmernes styrker og udviklingspotentialer. I fællesskab med svømmerne og deres trænere skal vi nu prioritere de vigtigste indsatsområder med henblik på at sikre en langsigtet kontinuerlig udvikling, der kommer til udtryk i de individuelle og holistiske udviklingsplaner, der nu er under udarbejdelse og implementering.”

”Endvidere skal der lyde en stor tak til de trænere og frivillige, der i det daglige arbejde har været en vigtig del af pigernes udvikling frem mod disse resultater og niveau,” slutter Lars Robl.

Helena Rosendahl Bach, Thea Blomsterberg og Julie Kepp Jensen repræsenterede Danmark ved VM.

Foto: Patrick Kraemer.

Allan Nyhus ny direktør for Dansk Svømmeunion

 

I dag kan bestyrelsesformand Pia Johansen omsider dele navnet på Dansk Svømmeunions nye direktør med omverdenen. Det er efter en rekrutteringsproces, der startede for fire måneder siden, hvor bestyrelsen nedsatte et ansættelsesudvalg og indgik samarbejde med rekrutteringsbureauet HumanTrust.

”Det var en meget glad bestyrelse, der i sidste uge blev præsenteret for ansættelsesudvalgets indstilling af Allan Nyhus som ny direktør,” fortæller Pia Johansen.

Og der er allerede nok at gå i gang med for den nye direktør:

“Alle skal have mulighed for at lære at svømme. Sådan er det ikke i dag. Derfor står Allan overfor en strategisk opgave i – sammen med relevante samarbejdspartnere − at udvikle og udvide rammerne for svømme-Danmarks mange forskellige vandaktiviteter,” siger Pia Johansen og fortsætter:

”Samtidig skal han naturligvis lede kontoret i Brøndby med fokus på at sikre sammenhæng på tværs af klubber og unionens ansatte.”

Frivillig erfaring og klorblåt blod i årene

Allans karriere med klorblåt blod i årene har siden teenageårene i Frederiksværk Svømmeklub været fyldt med organisatorisk arbejde. De seneste 10 år har han som formand for Hovedstadens Svømmeklub stået i spidsen for en imponerende udvikling af landets nu største idrætsforening. Derudover har han siden 2018 været medlem af Dansk Svømmeunions bestyrelse.

“Allan bidrager altid med såvel dyb indsigt som vidt udsyn, og han har en både konstruktiv og løsningsorienteret tilgang til opgaverne,” fortæller Pia Johansen, der har samarbejdet med Allan i bestyrelsen, siden hun blev formand i foråret 2021.

Det er dog ikke kun svømme-Danmark, Allan har sin erfaring med ledelse i politisk ledede organisationer fra. I sin civile karriere har han senest haft titlen som IT- og digitalchef i Danmarks Naturfredningsforening. I den rolle har han opnået solid erfaring med udvikling, implementering og ikke mindst involvering i en stor organisation med engagerede ansatte og frivillige. Det er erfaringer, som svømme-formanden er sikker på, vil komme Dansk Svømmeunion til gode.

Den helt rette til at få alle med i den nye retning

Allan er allerede et kendt ansigt på kontoret i Brøndby, da han ved Merete Riisagers fratræden i sommers, blev midlertidigt ansat som medlem af direktionen. Han har derfor haft sin daglige gang i Idrættens Hus. Nu ændres titlen til direktør. Dermed er det øverste ansvar placeret på skuldrene af en mand, der i den grad brænder for dansk foreningsliv og for dansk svømning.

”Selvom rollen som direktør er ny, er vi overbeviste om, at også den form for ledelse falder naturligt for Allan. Samtidig vil hans mangeartede ekspertise vil være med til at sætte turbo under den udvikling og forandring, som bestyrelsen ønsker,” siger Pia Johansen.

Dansk Svømmeunion har det seneste år vedtaget en ny vision og mission. Samtidig er sportsafdelingen med Lars Robl i spidsen ved at lægge sidste hånd på en ny sportslig strategi for elite-svømmerne. Dermed ligger der en stor opgave på direktørbordet i at sikre, at den nye retning er gennemskuelig, og at alle er med.

”Sammenhæng og inddragelse er nøgleord i at få hele svømme-Danmark med i den nye retning. Bestyrelsen og jeg er sikre på, at Allan er den helt rigtige til − sammen med vores ansatte, alle frivillige, klubber, klubbestyrelser og deres ansatte − at få denne nye retning ind under huden og fylde den ud til glæde for alle i dansk svømning,” siger Pia Johansen.

TWO-THIRDS OF PARA ATHLETES HAVE MADE FINANCIAL SACRIFICES TO ACHIEVE SPORTING GOALS

 

Irish Para Athletes represent their country with pride all around the globe. They are elite, high- performers that dedicate themselves to producing their best performances when it matters most. Para Athletes sacrifice much in their pursuit of their goals as findings from the recent survey produced by Hays Ireland illustrate.

Half (48%) of Para Athletes have prioritised elite sport over career opportunities

A further one third (31%) have missed out on a job opportunity due to sporting commitments

Over one quarter (28%) are entirely self-funded

31% of those surveyed hold an Honours Bachelors degree, while just under one quarter (24%) are educated to Masters degree level. 14% reported having a Doctorate

76% of respondents said that communication and the ability to set goals are their most transferable skills

69% highlighted professional mentoring as the service that would be most beneficial in aiding their transfer to the workplace

Hays Ireland to support Paralympians transition from arena to office

Hays comment: “Paralympians make huge sacrifices to excel in their chosen fields and need support as they transition from their sporting career into the workplace. Hays Ireland is proud to support our Irish Paralympians on this journey and help them harness their unique attributes of drive, discipline, and focus in the next chapter of their lives.”

Two-thirds of Irish Para Athletes have made financial sacrifices to achieve their sporting goals, according to new research released by recruitment industry leader Hays Ireland in conjunction with Paralympics Ireland.

Hays Ireland - the Official Recruitment Provider to Paralympics Ireland - will now establish a professional career mentoring service for Para Athletes and provide dedicated CV clinics and support with interview preparation to directly benefit athletes.

Sacrifices made for sporting success

Time (86%) was the biggest sacrifice made by Paralympians to achieve their sporting goals. This was followed by personal relationships and their social life (72%). Two-thirds (66%) have made financial sacrifices, while almost half (48%) have not pursued professional opportunities to prioritise their chosen sport. 31% said that they have missed out on a job opportunity because of their sporting commitments. 45% have felt additional stress and pressure from competing. Almost one-third (31%) said that their sporting career has taken priority over pursuing professional opportunities.

Those spending 15-20 hours a week dedicated to their sport are in the majority (35%). There was an even split (28%) between those spending 10-15 and 20+ hours. Just 10% spend 1-5 hours a week on their chosen sport.

Over half receive some funding from Sport Ireland (55%). However, over one quarter (28%) are entirely self-funded. 10% receive private funding or have commercial sponsorships.

Paralympians are highly educated and have plenty of skills to offer potential employers

Those surveyed feel that participation in their sport has imbued them with many transferable skills that will be attractive to potential employers. 76% said that communication and goal setting were the most transferable skills. This was followed by 69% who felt that their ability to take feedback onboard was the most valuable skill, while 66% thought that their employers would value their independence the highest. 62% indicated that their teamworking skills would help in the professional world, and just over half (52%) thought their leadership abilities were their biggest asset.

76% said that participation in sport helped them to grow their professional networks compared to 17% who did not believe this was the case. 69% said that professional mentoring services would ease the transition from high-performance sport to the professional world, and 35% say that education bursaries would help make the transition from sport to the professional world easier.

Finding a balance can be tough

With just under half (48%) of Paralympians in full-time employment and 21% working part-time while also juggling life as an athlete, finding the right balance can be tough.

31% said they find it difficult to balance life as an athlete with a full-time job. 14% reported being over-looked for promotions because of their sporting career, and 10% said they have failed to secure full-time employment that supports their sporting career.

45% of respondents said that time management – balancing their sport and professional commitments – was the biggest challenge when trying to navigate life as a high-performance athlete and that of a working professional or student. 32% noted that financial and logistic factors were key challenges.

Workplaces broadly supportive of Paralympians

55% believe that their employers value their sporting achievements. 41% report being allowed additional time off to focus on sport, while over one-third (36%) can work flexible hours. However, over one quarter (27%) do not receive any formal support but note that their colleagues are very supportive of their sporting endeavours. 14% said that their employers look to promote and champion their achievements, while 9% said their employers or colleagues are indifferent to them.

65% said that they plan on staying in their current role long-term, as it enables them to concentrate on their sporting career. 20% plan to re-evaluate their career upon retirement from high-performance sport, while 10% do not plan on staying in their current role long-term because it doesn’t enable them to concentrate on their sport.

Maureen Lynch, Operations Director at Hays Ireland said, “This research highlights the challenges faced by our Paralympic athletes as they seek to both compete in the arena of high-performance sport and the professional world. Their dedication, resilience and commitment to excellence are genuinely inspiring and are something that any professional environment can benefit from.

Paralympians make huge sacrifices to excel in their chosen fields and need support as they transition from their sporting career into the workplace. Hays Ireland is proud to support our Irish Paralympians on this journey and help them harness their unique attributes of drive, discipline, and focus in the next chapter of their lives.”

Paralympian and Paralympics Ireland President Eimear Breathnach said, “The research clearly shows that Para Athletes sacrifice much in their pursuit of their lifelong dream. Success in sport, especially high-performance sport, is not possible without sacrifice by athletes and those close to them. Para Athletes have extremely desirable skills for potential employers, and they are very well educated and qualified. We look forward to working with our partners in Hays to provide the athletes with the skills that can unlock their potential in the workplace in a similar fashion to the way the athletes deliver in the arena of competition.”

Merry Christmas for Barcelona, Olympiacos and Recco Champions League, Day 4, Group A

 

Huge wins marked the fourth round in Group A, just days before Christmas. Olympiacos downed Hannover after a sloppy start, Barceloneta blew Radnicki away by halftime, while Recco showed little mercy to Vouliagmeni. Jadran returned to the winning track and tied the single-game scoring record for this season by hitting 21 against Dinamo.

Group A, Day 4: Waspo 98 Hannover (GER) v Olympiacos Piraeus (GRE) 7-16, Jadran Split (CRO) v Dinamo Tbilisi (GEO) 21-7, Zodiac CNA Barceloneta (ESP) v Radnicki Kragujevac (SRB) 18-9, Pro Recco (ITA) v NC Vouliagmeni (GRE) 14-6

Standings: 1. Barceloneta 12, 2. Olympiacos 12, 3. Recco 9, 4. Jadran 6, 5. Vouliagmeni 4, 6. Radnicki 4, 7. Hannover 0, 8. Dinamo 0

Just like last week, the top three sides thrashed their respective opponents – as of now, nothing seems to endanger the F8 qualification of Olympiacos, Recco and Barceloneta as the other teams are not able to put up real fights when they meet them.

This round was a strong proof of that. The highlighted match of the day turned into a rout right away as Barceloneta stormed to an 8-1 lead against Radnicki – the Serbs were unable to cope with the hosts’ pace and tactical superiority. Barceloneta were on top of their game, they took 32 shots, 29 were on target, putting the Serbs under unbearable pressure and crushing them at the end.

Olympiacos had a sluggish start in Hannover, coach Igor Milanovic said that his players had seemed to start their Christmas break already – however, he managed to brought them back to stage a 2-7 run in the middle to periods, then adding seven more alone in the last one.

Recco had made the bigger part of the job by halftime against Vouliagmeni, 11 goals in the first two periods did enough damage to have a much calmer second part with only five goals in total.

After a series of bad defeats, Jadran bounced back under their new coach Jure Marelja. An 8-0 thrashing in the second period knocked out Dinamo and at the end the Croats tied the single-game scoring record of 21 goals, shared by Recco and Olympiacos so far.

For game reports, post-game quotes, stats, play-by-play and free streaming, visit www.championsleague.len.eu

Fixtures for Wednesday

Group B

19.30 Genesys OSC Budapest (HUN) v Astralpool Sabadell (ESP)

19.45 VK Novi Beograd (SRB) v AN Brescia (ITA)

20.00 CN Marseille (FRA) v Spandau 04 Berlin (GER)

20.30 FTC-Telekom Budapest (HUN) v Jug Adriatic Osiguranje Dubrovnik (CRO)

Paralympics Ireland Announce New Chief Executive Officer Stephen McNamara to Become CEO

 

Stephen McNamara is to be appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of Paralympics Ireland following a rigorous and competitive recruitment process undertaken by Paralympics Ireland.

Stephen joins Paralympics Ireland from the Irish Rugby Football Union, where he was Director of Communications from 2012. During his time with the IRFU, Stephen helped to ensure that rugby continued to grow in popularity, while working with multiple stakeholders to ensure that the IRFU remained one of the country’s most respected and popular sports organisations, with digital reach and engagement levels fitting of one of the country’s strongest brands.

In his previous role with Ryanair, Stephen helped the ambitious airline grow across the ultra-competitive aviation market throughout Europe.  Stephen worked with the airline’s charismatic CEO, Michael O’Leary, to grow the Ryanair brand globally.

Stephen started his career as a qualified tax consultant with KPMG, and, more recently, completed an MBA from UCD Smurfit Business School.

Stephen will begin his new role on February 6th when he will succeed Ruth Nic Aoidh who has been operating as the Interim CEO since August

Speaking about the announcement of Stephen McNamara as the new CEO of Paralympics Ireland, President Eimear Breathnach said

“We are delighted to confirm the appointment of Stephen McNamara as the new CEO of Paralympics Ireland. When we engaged in the process to recruit a new Chief Executive Officer we were determined that we would find the right person. The recruitment process was a rigorous and extremely positive one that allowed us to ensure that we would find the correct candidate that shares our strategic ambition and determination to take Irish Paralympic Sport to the next level.

In Stephen, I am sure that we have found a Chief Executive Officer that has the will, the vision and the expertise to deliver on our goals. Stephen has extensive expertise in sport and understands the Irish and the international sporting environment.

On behalf of the board of Paralympics Ireland, I would like to welcome Stephen to the organisation, we look forward to working closely with him to continue to create the best possible environment for our athletes to compete for, and win, medals at the Paralympic Games. We are delighted to have such a highly respected and accomplished professional lead our team.

I would also like to thank Ruth Nic Aoidh for her work since she joined us as the interim CEO in August. Ruth has been a very positive influence and has helped to move Paralympics Ireland forward during her time in the role as CEO. We look forward to Ruth's continuous involvement as a member of our Strategy Steering Committee where her wealth of knowledge and expertise will continue to benefit Paralympics Ireland.

Speaking about his appointment as the new Chief Executive Officer of Paralympics Ireland, Stephen McNamara said

“I am honored to be chosen by the Board as the new CEO of Paralympics Ireland.  I look forward to working with the President, the great team of staff, the athletes, all the board and volunteers, governing bodies, Sport Ireland and all stakeholders to help drive this great organisation forward.

Working in sport is a privilege; it is exciting and inspiring and there is huge opportunity for all as we look to the Paris 2024 games and onwards to LA in 2028.  The Irish public love sport and always get behind and support Irish athletes and I believe that the next decade can be transformative for our Paralympic athletes and their sports.”

Novi Beograd end Brescia's winning streak, FTC win big against Jug Champions League, Day 4, Group B

 

Novi Beograd handed Brescia their first defeat in the season and took over the top spot in Group B. Ferencvaros won a huge fight against arch-rival Jug, a crucial victory in this extremely tough group. Marseille and OSC also started closing the gap on the leaders so 2023 will see a series of outstanding battles.

Group B: VK Novi Beograd (SRB) v AN Brescia (ITA) 11-9, FTC-Telekom Budapest (HUN) v Jug Adriatic Osiguranje Dubrovnik (CRO) 9-7, CN Marseille (FRA) v Spandau 04 Berlin (GER) 14-7, Genesys OSC Budapest (HUN) v Astralpool Sabadell (ESP) 9-8

Standings: 1. Novi Beograd 10, 2. Brescia 9, 3. FTC 9, 4. OSC 5, 5. Jug 4, 6. Marseille 4, 7. Spandau 2, 8. Sabadell 1

In the rematch of last season’s thrilling semi-final, Novi Beograd managed to down Brescia with an impressive man-up play in the second half. Once they took a 6-3 lead early in the third period, the Serbs put away 5 for 6 in the most important phase of the game and never let Brescia narrow the gap to a single goal. Brazilian goalie Joao Fernandez was tremendous in the hosts’ goal, delivered 16 saves, which was the key to beat the Italians who had been 3/3 in the first three rounds. Now F8 host NBG is the only unbeaten side in this group and took over the lead from the defeated rival.

The other highlighted encounter was the rematch of last season’s quarter-final, and Ferencvaros took the upper hand against Jug once more. The Hungarians stormed to a 3-0 lead, despite missing their two most important players (goalie Soma Vogel and captain Denes Varga), then Jug hit back with a 0-5 rush, but the hosts could score twice in 50 seconds to make it 5-5 before the big break. The third saw one goal apiece as the battle intensified, then the Magyars scored two in 58 seconds for 8-6 and never looked back. They did a splendid job in front of their goal, their 9 blocks, combined with their young goalie David Szakonyi’s 8 saves won the game as they held Jug 0 for 7 in man-ups in the second half.

In the matches of the winless sides, Marseille and OSC could leave the initial disappointments of the season behind by beating Spandau and Sabadell respectively. Marseille and Spandau produced a hard-fought first half where the French took a 4-2 lead, then by netting three in 1:44 minutes early in the third they jumped to a 7-2 lead and there was no way back for the Germans.

The other game in Budapest featuring OSC and Sabadell followed a similar pattern as the clash of FTC and Jug a couple of kilometres away, though here Sabadell stormed to a 0-3 lead and OSC hit back with a 5-0 run, then at halftime it stood 5-5 as well. And they left the decision to the last quarter which began at 7-7 – and also the host Hungarians prevailed, the winning goal came 68 seconds from time by Krisztian Manhercz.

Apart from Marseille’s 7-goal blast of Spandau, this group doesn’t stop producing tight matches, a week ago two ended in a draw and one saw a single-goal win, now three encounters were decided in the last period – so the New Year promises nothing but thrilling excitements. 

For game reports, post-game quotes, stats, play-by-play and rewatching the matches, visit www.championsleague.len.eu

Champion League action resumes on 10-11 January.

TROIS RECORDS DU SÉNÉGAL BATTUS des 16e Championnats du Monde bassin 25m de Melbourne

 

Par Steven AIMABLE au 50m Nage Libre et 100m Papillon

Oumy DIOP au 100m Papillon des Championnats du Monde bassin 25 m de Melbourne

*Lors de la 4e journée (16/12/2022) de compétition des 16e Championnats du Monde bassin 25m de Melbourne, Steven AIMABLE réalise un Nouveau Record du Sénégal au 50m Nage Libre avec le temps de 22”42.

L’ancien record du 50m Nage Libre (22’’54), vieux de 4 ans était détenu par Abdoul Khadre Mbaye NIANE depuis le 15/11/2018 à Singapour.

*Puis à la 5e journée (17/12/2022) de compétition de ces Championnats du Monde bassin 25m, Steven AIMABLE s’octroie un autre RECORD du Sénégal au 100m Papillon avec le temps de 53”08

Il améliore ainsi son ancien record de 53”69, détenu depuis le 17/12/2021 lors des précédents Championnats du Monde bassin 25m à Abu Dhabi.

*Toujours, lors de la 5e journée (17/12/2022) de compétition de ces Championnats du Monde bassin 25m, Oumy DIOP réalise comme son coéquipier, un Nouveau RECORD du Sénégal au 100m Papillon avec le temps de 1'01”54

Elle améliore ainsi son ancien record de 1'01”68, détenu récemment, il y a juste un mois, le 06/11/2022 lors des XVIIes Championnats de France Élite en petit bassin - 25 m à Chartres.

NOUVEAUX RECORDS DU SÉNÉGAL

Félicitations et Encouragements à Steven AIMABLE  et  Oumy DIOP

Historic milestone for Artistic Swimming Men now eligible to compete in Artistic Swimming at the Olympic Games starting in Paris 2024

 

22 December 2022; LAUSANNE –  The International Olympic Committee has given its approval for World Aquatics to allow men to participate in the Artistic Swimming competitions at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games (Artistic Swimming was formerly known as synchronised swimming until 2017).

Men will now be eligible to compete in the team event. There are eight competitors in each team. The new rules will permit a maximum of two men to compete in each team at the Olympic Games. Ten teams are expected to compete. 

Artistic Swimming has been in the Olympic Games since 1984, and this will be the first time that men have been eligible to be included in a team at the Games. Men have been allowed to compete at the FINA World Aquatics Championships since 2015.

This is a day of celebration for those who have campaigned for the inclusion of men in the sport at the Olympic Games and who have pioneered men’s participation.

Bill May (USA) has been one of the leading voices in lobbying for this change. The first-ever male World Champion, in the inaugural mixed duet technical event at the FINA World Aquatics Championships in 2015, he is now a coach.

"The inclusion of men in Olympic Artistic Swimming was once considered the impossible dream. This proves that we should all dream big. The male athletes have endured. Now, through their perseverance and the help and support of so many, all athletes may stand alongside each other equally, reaching for Olympic glory."

Giorgio Minisini (Italy) is one of the leading men currently competing in the sport. He was World Champion at the FINA World Aquatics Championships in the mixed duet technical routine in 2017 and 2022.

"This announcement marks a milestone in Artistic Swimming history. Our sport's evolution towards inclusivity is going on fast forward, and this decision from IOC and World Aquatics will help us become an example for the whole Olympic movement.  As one of the most popular sports in the Games, we are ready to share the Olympic motto around the world louder than ever: “Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together”.”

“Aquatics sports are universal and men have proven themselves to be excellent artistic swimmers. I look forward to seeing this new dimension of Artistic Swimming being shared with the world in Paris. The inclusion of men in Artistic Swimming is a great credit to all those who have worked for many years to make this happen,” said World Aquatics President Captain Husain Al-Musallam. 

SWISS AQUATICS - Noè Ponti manque de peu une troisième médaille à ces championnats du monde

 

Lors de la dernière journée de compétition aux championnats du monde en petit bassin à Melbourne, Noè Ponti a encore une fois fait preuve de toute sa classe et a décroché la quatrième place dans une course captivante. Encore deuxième au dernier virage, il a dû se laisser dépasser par deux nageurs dans les 25 derniers mètres et s'est classé avec un temps de 49.25s à seulement 12 centièmes derrière l'Allemand Marius Kusch, troisième du classement.

Dans la nuit, Antonio Djakovic s'était en outre assuré une place dans le top 10 lors des séries du 200 m nage libre. Il a montré de manière impressionnante pourquoi il est vice-champion d'Europe de cette distance en grand bassin et a terminé la course à la 10e place après 1:43.04, malgré une préparation pas idéale pour cette compétition.

Outre les athlètes eux-mêmes, le chef du sport de compétition Markus Buck s'est montré très satisfait. Il est fier non seulement des performances (entre autres 2 médailles, 7 records suisses, 4 finales pour 4 athlètes) et du potentiel de cette jeune équipe, mais aussi du comportement professionnel et serein dont ils ont fait preuve à leur jeune âge, ne se laissant pas distraire par des obstacles extérieurs et gardant leur concentration. Cela fait plaisir de voir l'avenir.

Après ces championnats du monde extrêmement réussis, l'équipe suisse prendra le chemin du retour lundi et atterrira à Zurich mardi matin à 7h50, à l'exception de Noè Ponti. Il restera en Australie jusqu'à la fin de l'année pour profiter de vacances bien méritées.

Si vous souhaitez interviewer l'équipe, à l'exception de Noè, à son arrivée en Suisse mardi, veuillez contacter Tanja Moos.

Olympiacos retain trophy in electrifying atmosphere Women's Super Cup Final, Piraeus

 

Olympiacos reclaimed the Super Cup and became the third team in history to win back-to-back titles. In the all-Greek, all-Piraeus final they showed some outstanding defending to beat Ethnikos by seven goals. Olympiacos are now tied-first with Spain’s Sabadell on the all-time ranks with three Super Cup triumphs.

Women’s Super Cup, final: Olympiacos Piraeus (GRE) v Ethnikos Piraeus (GRE) 11-4

Though Ethnikos took the better start, opened the scoring and Eleni Sotireli stopped a penalty, but soon Olympiacos started rolling, as expected, hit two in 34 seconds and added one more to lead 3-1 after eight minutes.

Though a nice action goal halved the distance early in the second, soon Ethnikos’ problems started getting more and more visible. And that was their man-up play. They couldn’t put the ball away in 6 on 5s which partly credited the reds’ defence, but since they closed the game with a disastrous 0 for 11, that also told something of their composure in front.

Without man-up goals they didn’t have any chance against the mighty European champions. Even though Olympiacos’ offense wasn’t that overwhelming either (Ethnikos’ special zone which usually put a player almost next to the goalie caused some problems for them too), still, it was efficient enough to widen the gap quarter by quarter.

Limiting Ethnikos to a single action goal per period, their victory was never in question – they led 5-2 at halftime and 7-3 before the last break. The LEN Trophy winners started the final period with a fine goal from the centre goal from Alkistis Benekou but their momentum gone 21 seconds as Ioanna Chydirioti replied from action immediately for 8-4.

Then Olympiacos killed three man-downs in a row before Nikola Eleftheriadou hit another one from action, and towards the end two goals from 6 on 5s truly mirrored the difference between the sides.

Eight months after the Euro League Final Four fiesta in this pool, Olympiacos could celebrate another trophy – their second Super Cup in as many years. They join fellow Greek side Vouliagmeni (2009 and 2010) and Spain’s Sabadell (2013 and 2014) in winning back-to-back titles – and also caught up Sabadell on the all-time ranks as this was their third Super Cup after 2015 and 2021, while Ethnikos lost their second final after 2010, that time they were beaten by Vouliagmeni, so they are not really lucky with playing against fellow Greek teams.

 

Quotes

Alexandar Ciric, coach, Olympiacos

“We are happy for another great achievement! I am proud of this team, of these girls, of this club. It was a nice final here, in the National pool of Piraeus, and we celebrated, together with the Olympiacos fans, another European title. It’s the seventh European title for this team, I'm happy to belong here! Congratulations to everyone, let's keep going strong to achieve all our goals."

 

Margarita Plevritou, player, Olympiacos

“This is our seventh European title and the feeling is unique every time. I am proud to be a member of such a team, with so much quality and in every game, we show our teamwork, finally getting what we deserve.”

 

Stefanos Leandros, coach, Ethnikos

“It's a big honour to participate in a European final and we are delighted to be here today. I am incredibly proud of my players, and we will keep fighting till the end of the season in the Greek championship and also in the Euro Cup. Today, Greek water polo was celebrating with this game of Olympiacos and Ethnikos, and our city Piraeus should be very proud of his teams. Piraeus is the centre of European Water polo. Congratulations to Olympiacos and Mr. Ciric for this success. We already feel excitements for the upcoming games in the LEN Euro Cup.”

 

Alkisti Benekou, player, Ethnikos

“We were ready for this final. We were prepared well, and we are proud of our team. It is very important for our club to be able to play in a European final and we are hoping for better days. I believe we lost so many chances in extras and that cost us the title. Congratulations to Olympiacos. It's a real celebration of Greek water polo anyway.”

17 December 2022

SWIM IRELAND - Ní Riain sets new World Record on Day Three of Irish Winter Championships

 

Records continued to fall on the third and final day of the 2022 Irish National Winter Championships. Paralympian, Róisín Ní Riain spectacularly set a new World Para Swimming Short Course twice on the same day, while European record holder, Daniel Wiffen set a new National Record in the 400m Freestyle.

Róisín Ní Riain set a new World Para Swimming short course record in the S13 200m Backstroke with a time of 2:21.20, shaving off 1.39 seconds from her heat swim and breaking the record she set just this morning. The Tokyo Paralympian swam a time of 2:22.59 this morning in the Women’s 200m Backstroke, setting a new short course World Record, only to come back for the evening session and go 1.39 seconds quicker tonight to set a new World Record. This World Record is subject to ratification by World Para Swimming.

On the back of setting a European record, swimming sensation Daniel Wiffen returned to action to a packed house for the Men’s 400m Freestyle. Wiffen continued his excellent form setting a new Irish Senior Record with 3:38.40, beating the record of 3:41.63, set by Wiffen during his sensational 800m Freestyle performance last Thursday. Finn McGeever (Limerick) clocked 3:48.19 to take the silver medal, with bronze going to Jack Fleming of Lisburn in a time of 3:53.28.

The Men’s 100m Butterfly Final served up a thriller as Jack Cassin touched in 53.23 setting a new National Junior Record, a record that was just a few hours old, having been set New Ross’ Evan Bailey (53.52) in the morning heats. Bailey was close behind Cassin in tonight’s final, clocking 53.47 to take the silver medal, while third place and bronze went to Ards’ Charlie Eatwell in 55.45.

The crowd were treated to a thrilling battle in the Women’s 50m Freestyle with National Centre Dublin’s Erin Riordan taking top spot on the podium in 25.00, finishing closely ahead of Olympian, Danielle Hill of Larne in 25.13 to take silver, Victoria Catterson took the final spot on the podium with a time of 25.63. In the same race, Ards swimmer, Grace Davison set a new Irish Junior Record with a time of 25.73, beating the existing record of 25.90 held by Mona McSharry since 2016.

Molly Mayne of Templeogue finished first place in the 200m Individual Medley with a time of 2:11.68, The second spot on the podium went to Ards’ Grace Davison who came home in 2:15.66, with third place and bronze claimed by Naomi Trait of UCD in 2:17.05.

Mark Szaranek of won the 200m Individual Medley Final to claim a commemorative medal, touching the wall in 1:54.27, while Eoin Corby, also of Limerick, came home in second place with a time of 1:58.60 to take the National gold.

Earlier in the day, Limerick claimed the first titles of the day in the 4x50m Men’s Medley Relay, in a time of 1:41.61. Ards took home a national silver in a total time of 1:44.42, while NAC Swim Club, swimming in their home pool, finished in 1:44.52 to take the third spot on the podium.

The final event of the morning session was the Women’s 4x50m Medley Relay, an Ards quartet of Ellie McCartney, Zophia Quigley, Grace Davison and Victoria Catterson continued their impressive week to combine a total time of 1:55.19 to take the National Title, concluding the morning session.

The Men’s 200m Backstroke kicked off the final session of the weekend, with John Shortt of National Centre Limerick winning his second national title of the week, finishing first in a time of 1:57.73 to take the gold. In second place and taking the silver home was Neddie Irwin of Dolphin with a time of 2:01.57, while Brydan Bryne claimed bronze in 2:03.74.

National Centre Dublin’s Tom Fannon took home the national title in the 50m Freestyle with a time of 21.42, a mere 0.07 outisde of Shane Ryan’s Irish Senior Record. Finishing closely behind Fannon was Calum Bain to take silver in a time of 21.47, while bronze went to Matthew Walsh Hussey of NAC Swim Club in 22.64.

The crowd were treated to another titanic battle in the Women’s 100m Butterfly between Ellie McCartney of Ards and Alana Burns-Atkins, with McCartney coming out eventual winner with a time of 1:00.39 to take the national title. Burns-Atkins took home silver in 1:01.14, with bronze going to Sharon Semchiy of Sundays Well in 1:02.94.

The Women’s 400m Freestyle brought the curtain down on a fantastic three days of swimming at the Sport Ireland National Aquatic Centre. Victoria Catterson of National Centre Ulster/Ards touched the wall in 4:10.45 to take home gold, while Rebekah Friel (Trojan) claimed silver in 4:15.34 and bronze going to Mollie McAlorum of National Centre Ulster/Leander in 4:23.44.

National Performance Director Jon Rudd said, "The has been a terrific three days of racing in Dublin, with those in the stands and those watching the livestream getting the chance to enjoy some truly exciting racing leading into Christmas. Pride of place must go to Daniel Wiffen for setting a scintillating European Record for the 800m Freestyle, Ireland's first ever such record and to Roisin Ni Riain for setting and then breaking again a World Para Record in the 200m Backstroke. We have also seen eleven Irish Records broken at this meet and the depth of racing here has been very pleasing to see. Hats off too to Ellen Walshe for some stellar performances on her return to the racing pool. Next up for us is the McCullagh International in February as we head into the Irish Open in April, our Trials for the 2023 summer international meets. And now back to the training pool from Monday!"

 

SWISS AQUATICS - Noè Ponti verpasst seine dritte Medaille an dieser WM nur knapp

 

photo by patrick b. krämer

Am letzten Wettkampftag an der Kurzbahn-WM in Melbourne spielt Noè Ponti nochmals seine ganze Klasse aus und holt sich in einem spannenden Rennen den vierten Platz. Bei der letzten Wende noch auf Platz 2, musste er sich auf den letzten 25 Metern noch von zwei Schwimmern überholen lassen und klassierte sich mit seiner Zeit von 49.25s nur 12 Hundertstel hinter dem drittklassierten Deutschen Marius Kusch. 

In der Nacht hatte sich Antonio Djakovic in den Vorläufen über 200m Freistil zudem einen Top-10-Platz gesichert. Er zeigte eindrücklich, weswegen er Vize-Europameister über diese Distanz auf der langen Bahn ist und beendete das Rennen trotz nicht ideal Vorbereitung auf diesen Wettkampf nach 1:43.04 auf dem 10. Platz.

Entsprechend zufrieden zeigte sich neben den Athleten selbst auch Leistungssportchef Markus Buck. Nicht nur die Leistungen (u.a. 2 Medaillen, 7 Schweizerrekorde, 4 Finals bei 4 Athlet:innen) und das Potential dieses jungen Teams, sondern auch das professionelle, abgeklärte Verhalten, das sie in ihrem jungen Alter bereits an den Tag legten, sich auch von äusserlichen Widrigkeiten nicht ablenken liessen und den Fokus voll und ganz behalten würden, erfülle ihn mit Stolz und mache Freude auf die Zukunft.

Das Schweizer Team wird nach dieser äusserst erfolgreichen WM am Montag die Heimreise antreten und am Dienstagmorgen um 07:50 Uhr in Zürich landen, mit Ausnahme von Noè Ponti. Dieser wird noch bis Ende Jahr in Australien bleiben und dort seine verdienten Ferien geniessen. Sollten Sie Interesse haben das Team, mit Ausnahme von Noè, bei der Ankunft am in der Schweiz am Dienstag zu interviewen, melden Sie sich bitte an Tanja Moos.

Dansk Svømmeunion - Landsholdsbobler øjner dansk rekord i et af svømmesportens mest ikoniske løb

 

Malthe Lindeblad håber at give sig selv to tidlige julegaver til DM på kortbane.

Læs også den udsendte pressemeddelelse her.

Beckmann, Aslak Nørgaard og Nickelsen. Deltagerlisten til årets danmarksmesterskaber i svømning tæller flere tidligere OL-svømmere og en række internationale danske medaljetagere – heriblandt også unge Puggaard, Tabor, Castella og Damborg, som − så sent som i sommer − prydede medaljeskamlerne ved VM og EM for juniorer samt European Youth Olympic Festival.

Danmarksmesterskaberne arrangeres i samarbejde mellem Dansk Svømmeunion og Vejle Svømmeklub, som stiller til start med 18 svømmere. En af dem er Malthe Lindeblad, som var en del af det danske svømmelandshold under EM Langbane for knap et halvt år siden.

"Jeg føler mig virkelig klar."

Den 21-årige svømmer kan nærmest ikke vente til mesterskabernes start, hvor han har tænkt sig at forsvare sin DM-titel fra i fjor og slå Jakob Andkjærs 13-årige gamle rekord på 50 meter frisvømning. Malthe Lindeblad siger:

”Det bliver vanvittigt, og jeg kan nærmest ikke beskrive, hvor meget jeg glæder mig. Jeg har endnu ikke prøvet at svømme et DM på hjemmebane, men jeg forestiller mig, det bliver helt specielt at slutte sæsonen af sammen med mine holdkammerater i vores eget bassin.”

”Personligt fik jeg et stort boost efter danmarksmesterskaberne for hold i november, og jeg føler mig virkelig klar. Sidste år vandt jeg 50 meter fri, og jeg er blot 17 hundrededele af et sekund fra den danske rekord, så jeg håber at kunne give mig selv to tidlige julegaver ved at genvinde DM-titlen og slå rekorden.”

Sportschef følger DM fra Jordens anden side

Når de danske mesterskaber føltes i gang, er verdensmesterskaberne i Australien allerede startet, hvor tre danskere deltager. Også Dansk Svømmeunions sportschef, Lars Robl, er med til VM, men han kommer til at følge det spændingsfyldte DM tæt på trods af afstanden.

”Stort set alle Danmarks hurtigste svømmere samles i Vejle, så jeg forventer fire konkurrencedage fyldt med action, dramatik og stærke præstationer. Flere af de etablerede profiler og mange af vores talentfulde unge svømmere har vist spændende udviklingstendenser i løbet af sæsonen, så jeg glæder mig til at følge, hvordan svømmerne har udviklet sig under deres daglige trænere siden sidste formtopning,” siger Lars Robl og uddyber:

”Jeg vil også benytte lejligheden til at sende en stor tak til Vejle Svømmeklub og alle de frivillige, som undervejs hjælper som officials, med forplejning og på anden vis. Indsatsen fra lokalarrangører og frivillige er fundamental for afholdelsen af dansk svømmesports nationale events, og de fortjener stor anerkendelse.”

Svømmere hædres for deres dual career

Siden sommeren 2018 har Dansk Svømmeunion i forbindelse med danmarksmesterskaberne på langbane i svømning hædret de svømmere, der lykkes med at kombinere en uddannelse og svømning på højeste nationale niveau. Grundet flytning af DM Langbane denne sommer til DM-ugen i juni, foregår hædringen under DM Kortbane i stedet for.

Foto: Patrick Kraemer

Daiya Seto makes history with six-peat, Jordan Crooks wins one for the Cayman Islands

 

Written by: Andy Ross, FINA Correspondent

mage Source: Daniel Pockett/Getty Images

It was a historic night from the Melbourne Sport & Aquatic Center at the 16th World Swimming Championships (25m) as Daiya Seto (JPN) won a record sixth straight gold medal in the 400m IM, while Jordan Crooks (CAY) became the first Caribbean man to win gold at this meet since 1999.

Women’s 4x50m Medley Relay - Australia lights up world record again, wins third women’s relay of the championships

The Australian women held off the Americans to start the fifth night of competition from the World Short Course Championships with a world record of 1:42.35, taking three hundredths off the record from 2018 of the United States.

The Australian team of Mollie O’Callaghan (25.49), Chelsea Hodges (29.11), Emma McKeon (24.43), and Madison Wilson (23.32) held off the American team of Claire Curzan (25.75), Lilly King (29.00), Torri Huske (24.94), and Kate Douglass (22.72), who won the silver at 1:42.41.

It was good. I saw my splits and I was happy with it, I swam fly instead of freestyle and I knew I had to step up for this. I have another race in two hours so there is plenty of time. My mindset is to go as fast as I can.

By Emma McKeon

“I was nervous,” Wilson said. “The medley spot is usually saved for the #1 freestyle, but Emma swam fly and I definitely felt the pressure, but I could not be happier with how it turned out.”

Sweden also nearly won the gold medal, despite missing two of its best swimmers, winning the bronze at 1:42.43 with Louise Hansson (25.86), Klara Thormalm (29.34), Sara Junevik (24.06), and Michelle Coleman (23.17) showcasing their sprint depth.

Men’s 4x50m Medley Relay - Nicolo Martinenghi splits fastest ever as Italians rip new world record

The relays have been on fire this week in Melbourne as yet another world record fell, this time to the Italians, who added to their gold medals in the men’s 4x100m freestyle earlier in the week. The team of Lorenzo Mora (22.65), Nicolo Martinenghi (24.95), Matteo Rivolta (21.60), and Leonardo Deplano (20.52) set the world record at 1:29.72, lowering their own mark of 1:30.14 from last year to become the first team faster than 90 seconds.

During the relay, you really feel how teammates work, how friendship works, it’s really different and really enjoyable with these guys.

By Lorenzo Mora

The impressive part to the Italian team is that the only constant between this team and the world record setting relay last year was Martinenghi, who became the first man to break 25 seconds on a relay split.

“It's incredible to set a new world record,” Martinenghi said. “Last year, we were third. To do this with my teammates is special. We have a good team and a big team.”

The Italians also won gold in the 4x100m medley relay at June’s World Championships in Budapest, and have challenged the Americans for the world’s best men’s national team from top to bottom.

The Americans were second, setting an American record at 1:30.37 with the team of Ryan Murphy (22.61), Nic Fink (25.24), Shaine Casas (22.13), and Michael Andrew (20.39).

Australia won the bronze at 1:30.81 with the team of Isaac Cooper (22.66), Grayson Bell (25.92), Matthew Temple (21.75), and Kyle Chalmers (20.48) as Temple’s butterfly split puts him fourth all-time.

Men’s 800m Freestyle - Gregorio Paltrinieri wins inaugural title

Who else would touch first in the inaugural men’s 800m freestyle final than Italian legend Gregorio Paltrinieri? Having been around the international scene in the 1500m freestyle since he was a teenager in 2012, Paltrinieri has long been dominant in the 800m and 1500m freestyles, reaching podiums in major international finals for ten years now.

On Saturday, he added the distinction of being the first World short course champion in the men’s 800m freestyle as the event made its debut in Melbourne. Paltrinieri touched first after 32 lengths of the pool with a 7:29.99, holding off the likes of Norway’s Henrik Christiansen (7:31.48), who picked up his third World short course medal at age 26.

“It feels amazing,” Christiansen said. “It’s really good to be back and being able to fight the other guys again. I feel like I’m putting on a show out there, and Gregorio (Paltrinieri) is not winning so easily and that’s a good feeling.

“The 800m Freestyle is a new event on the short course circuit after it became an Olympic event, and it’s slowly starting to get added onto the short course programs. I feel like the 800m Freestyle is my strongest event, and I’m just happy to be able to swim an 800m here.”

Paltrinieri’s time is not a best time but at age 28, it is his 21st medal at either an Olympics or a World Championships.

It was a difficult race… I think it was more difficult than the 1500m free, I felt tight in the race, but I'm good. It’s another gold medal, so the result is good. It's important every time you learn something when you race. Even at 28, I am still learning. I am taking something from every race. It was important for me to come here and to compete again. It was the longest season with a lot of competition.

By Gregorio Paltrinieri

The bronze went to France’s Logan Fontaine (7:33.12), who finished ahead of Japan’s Shogo Takeda (7:33.78) with a new Asian record.

 

Women’s 400m IM - Hali Flickinger dominates field for first World Championships title

After getting oh so close to breaking through so many times in the 200m butterfly, USA’s Hali Flickinger finally got that individual gold medal on Saturday evening in Melbourne, this time it was the 400m IM, where she won gold at 4:26.51.

Heading into the 2019 Worlds in Gwangju, Flickinger looked poised to have her golden moment in the 200m butterfly, but was upstaged in the final and got the silver medal. At the last Olympics and World Championships, more silvers and bronze medals followed. After a disappointing finish at the Budapest World Championships, she took a lengthy break from the pool and took a job as a real estate agent in Arizona, giving her a little more balance in her life.

In late 2019, she switched training locations to Arizona State University with coach Bob Bowman, who currently coaches the reigning long course World champ Leon Marchand. Flickinger left long-time coach Jack Bauerle late in the last Olympic quadrennial, and had switched event focus to the 400m IM. It paid off for Flickinger on Saturday, who used that easy speed in butterfly and backstroke to grab the lead early and not relinquish.

I took it out fast, it was fun and I just wanted to swim my own race. I know my strengths and my weaknesses, so I just tried to do my best.

By Hali Flickinger

Flickinger won by two seconds over Italy’s Sara Franceschi (4:28.58) and Japan’s Waka Kobori (4:29.03).

“I’m very happy,” Franceschi said. “It’s my first World Championships, and first World Championships medal. It’s incredible, I haven’t had this feeling before. It’s a very fast time and a personal best. I’m just so happy.”

Flickinger is the first American to win the gold medal since Kaitlin Sandeno in 2004.

Men’s 400m IM - Daiya Seto rewrites history books, first to win six world short course titles

Daiya Seto became the first person to ever win the same event six times at the World Championships - short or long course, as he won the 400m IM on Saturday night in Melbourne with a 3:55.75. It’s the fastest of any of his six gold medals in this event.

The streak began in 2012 when the 18-year-old Seto made his international breakthrough to take gold over Laszlo Cseh. Seto had just come off a successful junior career and had a lot of promise over what he could do in this sport. In 2013, he followed that up with a World long course title in the 400m IM and he became a household name, winning medals for the next 10 years.

Last year in 2021 was the closest the streak came to ending, when he won gold over Ilia Borodin by 0.21 seconds. Seto, now age 28, is still one of the best swimmers in the world, showcasing his versatility and longevity as he is fulfilling the promise he showed as a young junior swimmer ten years ago.

Seto, the current world record holder, had gotten a big push on the front half from American Carson Foster, who was aiming to bring the 400m IM title back to the United States for the first time since Ryan Lochte won in 2010. But Seto used that gold medal 200m breaststroke speed to his advantage, out-splitting Foster by two and a half seconds, and the lead was too large to run him down on freestyle.

I was focused on this event, I swam the 200m IM and the 200m butterfly and the 200m breast, but the 400 IM is my favourite event. I never lose in short course. Next year, I want to be the champion in long course.

By Daiya Seto

Foster collected silver, upgrading his bronze from last year, with a 3:57.63, which moves him up to seventh all-time. It also matches his two silver medals from the World long course championships in June, as well as his silver earlier in the meet here in the 200m IM.

“It was fine,” Foster said. “It was definitely not where I wanted to be, but I can’t complain with a personal best and a silver medal.

“It’s been a really good start (to my international racing career), but a lot of silver medals, so I’ll keep working hard every day to get on top.”

Foster was also joined in the final by his brother Jake, who finished sixth at 4:02.51.

“That’s a race that – no matter what the result was – I'll always remember getting to walk out with my brother (Jake). Sharing that with him is what I’m taking away from tonight.”

South Africa’s Matthew Sates won his second medal of the meet after gold in the 200m, with a bronze here at 3:59.21, ahead of Italy’s Alberto Razzetti (4:00.45).

Women’s 50m Freestyle - Emma McKeon flexes muscles, dominates field for sprint double

Perhaps the star of the meet and the one Melbourne came out to see, Emma McKeon delivered with a dominating performance in the 50m freestyle final to win her second gold medal of the night.

McKeon was hardly challenged, leading from the outset as she swam to a new Oceania record with a 23.04, nearly becoming the second woman to break 23 seconds. Nevertheless, McKeon moved herself up to third all-time as she collected the sprint freestyle double after winning the 100m freestyle earlier in the championships.

I honestly still don't call myself a 50m specialist, I prefer the 100  it's my pet event. I train for the 100 and also the 200, but I do like coming down to swim the 50, my fun event. One of my strengths is my start and I knew I would need a great start. I didn't know that I swam a championship record until you just told me. I didn't think I would come that close, I just knew that I had to be on my game.

By Emma McKeon

McKeon is the first Australian to win this event at the World short course championships since Libby Lenton won in 2006. Australia is also one race away from sweeping all the individual women’s freestyle events here after McKeon won the 50m and 100m, while Lani Pallister won the 400m, 800m, and 1500m.

Poland’s Kasia Wasick, who was arguably McKeon’s biggest challenger coming into the final after winning the World Cup triple crown, finished with the silver medal at 23.55, upgrading her bronze from last year.

“I love swimming and I feel like I’ve had a second chance in life to be able to do what I love,” Wasick said. “When I retired I thought, ‘I am never going to be back in the sport.’ So when I got that chance I really enjoyed myself, and while there were hard moments, I still enjoyed those moments, as I know my career is not going to last forever and moments like this I’m going to remember forever.”

Great Britain’s Anna Hopkin won her first individual medal at the world level with a bronze at 23.68, finishing just ahead of Denmark’s Julie Jensen (23.71).

Men’s 50m Freestyle - Jordan Crooks lives up to the hype, leads Caribbean 1-3 in historic finish

After blasting some huge swims of the heats of the 100m and 50m freestyle, Jordan Crooks of the Cayman Islands established himself as a breakout performer on the world stage thanks to his explosive starts and turns. He had kept that going in the semifinals of both distances, but in the 100m freestyle final, Crooks led for 75 meters before falling flat and finishing seventh overall.

After securing the top seed in the 50m free final for tonight, Crooks did not let that happen again, flipping tied with Great Britain’s Ben Proud at the 25m, and beat him to the wall with a 20.46 for the Cayman Islands’ first swimming medal at the World Short Course Championships.

It feels great, I feel blessed and I am really grateful for my God, my coaches, my family and everyone who has helped me along this journey. It means a lot to see this come to light. This is awesome. I looked up to a lot of these guys. It was awesome to be able to race them and to have this experience. They are extremely talented and I have much respect for every one of them.

By Jordan Crooks

Proud won silver at 20.49, backing up a summer where he was long World champion and the Commonwealth Games champion. It caps a great 12 months for the 28-year-old, who was also World short course champion last year after not getting on the podium at the Olympics.

“I wasn’t too sure if I was going to come to this meet, but I had a chat with my coach, and did a quick six-week block (of training), so to be doing this sort of time is brilliant,” Proud said.

“Seeing Jordan swim so quick yesterday morning completely changed the dynamic of the race as suddenly we were all chasing someone. It brought a brilliant atmosphere to the call room, everyone was excited, and to have a new name on the scene and see a twenty-year-old swim so quick is brilliant for the sport.”

It was a historic night for the Caribbean, as Trinidad & Tobago’s Dylan Carter won the bronze medal for the nation’s fourth medal all-time at these championships, adding to his own 50m butterfly medals in 2018 and 2021, as well as George Bovell’s bronze in the 100m IM in 2012.

Carter had won this event at all three Swimming World Cup stops, and joined Crooks on the podium with a 20.72, which tied his lifetime best.

“I am happy to come away with something coming down here,” Carter said. “It was really fun. Proud of Jordan, you know, to have two Caribbean athletes in the men's 50 final - that's brand new. So both of us on the podium…that's massive for the region and for serving the region, especially in the men’s 50 freestyle, which is, you know, arguably the fastest, well the fastest event in the pool so proud of that.”

This is the first time since 1999 that a male swimmer from the Caribbean won a World short course gold medal when Rodolfo Falcon of Cuba won the 50m and 100m backstroke in Hong Kong. Crooks wasn’t born until 2002 as he ushers in a new era for the region.

Jamaica’s Alia Atkinson was the last woman to win gold from the Caribbean when she won the 50m and 100m breaststroke in 2018.

 

Semi-finals wrap

Women’s 100m Butterfly semi-finals

Setting the table for one of the best races of the entire week, USA’s Torri Huske is the top seed for the final with a 55.23 in the semi-finals as she aims to be the fourth woman to break 55 seconds in the event all-time. Huske is seeded ahead of Sweden’s Louise Hansson (55.78) and last year’s champ in Canada’s Maggie MacNeil (55.83). Germany’s Angelina Kohler (56.23) ang USA’s Claire Curzan (56.37) are seeded fourth and fifth for the final.

Mac Neil is the Olympic champion from 2021 while Huske is the reigning long course World champion from June 2022.

 

Men’s 100m Butterfly semi-finals

200m butterfly champion Chad Le Clos is looking to double up here as the top seed for the 100m butterfly for tomorrow. Le Clos won four straight titles from 2012 - 2018 before he was upstaged in Abu Dhabi last year, getting silver behind Italy’s Matteo Rivolta, who is seeded second here at 49.07 in a tie with Switzerland’s Noe Ponti (49.07). Germany’s Marius Kusch (49.20) and rising junior Ilya Kharun (49.65) are seeded fourth and fifth.

 

Women’s 50m Breaststroke semi-finals

Lithuania’s Ruta Meilutyte absolutely smashed the world record in the 50m breaststroke with a 28.37, taking nearly two full tenths off of Alia Atkinson’s 28.56 from 2018. Meilutyte is now the big favorite for the final tomorrow after she was disqualified in the 100m breaststroke earlier in the meet after initially winning silver. Meilutyte, now age 25, reclaims her first world record since 2014 when she was a teenager.

If anyone can take down Meilutyte in the final, it could be 100m champion Lilly King of the United States, who is seeded second at 28.86. South Africa’s Lara Van Niekerk (29.27) and China’s Tang Qianting (29.28) each set continental records in getting third and fourth for the final tomorrow.

Men’s 50m Breaststroke semifinals

Fresh off the fastest relay split of all-time earlier in the night, Italy’s Nicolo Martinenghi put up the top time in the semifinals of the 50m breaststroke with a 25.60, as he will be up against 100m champ Nic Fink (25.64) who is seeded second.

Fellow Italian Simone Cerasuolo (25.66) is seeded third ahead of China’s Yan Zibei (25.80), who broke the Asian record.