FINA prepares preliminary list of countries invited to compete in the swimming relay at the Tokyo Olympics, first reported Alex Pussildi In Bestswimming.
The biggest and only change to the Swimswam charts Reported Friday This is the absence of Greece in the 400 QN relay and the 400 QN relay. One week ago, the Greeks swam 3: 34.61 in the medley relay of 400 at the Acropolis Grand Prix. Is ahead of Ireland by 0.01 secondsIn the last wildcard position. He also swam the Greek record of 3: 45.38 in the mixed 400 medley relay Move to the third Joker position.
This means that Ireland, who did not qualify a week ago, have qualified for their first Olympic relay since 1972, with their 800 men’s freestyle and 400 medley relays swimming in Tokyo.
John Rudd, The Director of Swimming Ireland’s National Performance spoke about the importance of qualifying relays for Tokyo:
“This is a historic moment for Irish swimming and for all of us to be a part of, and it is very inspiring and uplifting to have something big for the Irish swimming community to celebrate after these difficult times in our sport recently. Athletes have done a great job here, winning one or two relays, something we have not achieved in 49 years. The coaches and trainers who work with these athletes day and night deserve our praise and gratitude. We are now gearing up to make our people in Tokyo proud and give everyone a summer of excitement to look forward to. “
There have been no reports from the Greek Swimming Federation (KOE) explaining why the Greeks were not included in any of the relays mentioned above. Swimswam contacted Fina and Coe to inquire about the relays, but received no response.
Apart from Ireland, Switzerland is another country that has benefited from the fact that Greece is not on the list. Switzerland are the first team to be “out” in the 400 medley relay. They are now in fourth wild card position and have a chance to compete in Tokyo.
These lists are not final as teams have until June 11 to confirm their participation in Tokyo.
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