Foreign talent dominates at Swim the Swan in Perth

The competition for selection for Kazan and Olympic qualification began in earnest yesterday at the Swim the Swan 10km race in Perth, Australia.

In a fiercely fought men’s event, just two seconds separated first, second and third places. Andrew Gemmell beat fellow American Alex Meyer to take gold. Great Britain’s Daniel Fogg was a close third. Their times were 1:45:26.90, 1:45:28.30 and 1:45:28.35 respectively. Fogg said he was “happy with the result but few things to work on for next time.” Australian favourite Jarrod Poort was fourth.
“I’m a little bit disappointed the international boys took the overall win but it was great to have them over here,” said Poort. “They are some of the best open water guys in the world and it’s really good for us Aussie boys and the sport to have them over here.” It is the first time USA Swimming has sent a team to the event.
In the women’s event, the Netherlands’ Sharon van Rouwendaal took first place. GB’s Keri-anne Payne put in a strong performance following her break from competitive racing last year to take the silver medal. Becca Mann of the USA was third. The women’s times were 2:08:38.10, 2:09:16.50 and 2:09:18.30 respectively