Two days after 24 athletes had their names added to the list that will be representing Team GB on the biggest sporting stage later this year, British Swimming can confirm that all of the Olympic team selected thus far will head to Hungary’s Duna Arena, with the swimming schedule for the multi-discipline Championships running from 17th-23rd May.
The Europeans will provide a chance for the soon-to-be Olympic class of 2021 to further hone their arena skills and build on important training work. The Budapest meet is also another key qualification opportunity for those who narrowly missed out at the recent British Swimming Selection Trials and will also offer an opportunity for some of the younger names to gain vital major competition experience with Paris 2024 only three years away. A further 12 swimmers have been included, in addition to the Olympic squad, meaning a 40-strong swimming team will board the plane to Budapest.
With international racing opportunities so limited over the past year, National Performance Director Chris Spice is looking forward to seeing British athletes back in the water alongside top-class rivals from across the continent.
“This event comes at an opportune moment as we step up our final preparations for Tokyo, bringing the team together for the first time since our announcement on Tuesday,” he said.
“Whilst we have enjoyed the experience of domestic racing with the recent Selection Trials and the two meets in Manchester before that, this will be our first time back in international competition in over a year. This will be another big step forward, and we fully support and thank LEN and our fellow European national teams for committing to this important racing opportunity. We are confident that the protocols and guidance will be in place to ensure the safest possible environment for our athletes, coaches and support staff.
“The European Championships are also another important element in our Olympic selection policy, so the week of racing will be an opportunity for some athletes to put in the performances they need to and that we know they are capable of. It is also a key chance to test out our relay squads and seek Olympic qualification where necessary, whilst for the younger members of the squad, it will be a valuable learning experience on their journey into Paris 2024 and beyond.”
Good luck Elliot!!
