The seats on the train are secured. Following the Aquatics GB Swimming Championships, the majority of the British team for the upcoming Olympics in Paris has been solidified. Now, only the remaining spots await selection by the coaches, with the Paralympic team set to be finalized in the weeks ahead. Reflecting on a week marked by Adam Peaty’s resurgence, British records, and personal bests, former swimming Olympians Karen Pickering and Steve Parry assess the composition of the British Olympic team and offer insights into its prospects for Paris.
Who impressed you the most in London?
Karen Pickering: It’s challenging to pick one standout performer amidst so many impressive swims in London, but Ollie Morgan’s achievement in the 100m backstroke stands out for me. Breaking Liam Tancock’s 15-year record was no easy feat, especially considering the advantage Tancock had with the supersuits back then. Morgan’s success is not only significant for him personally but also bodes well for the British medley relay team.
Steve Parry: While it’s encouraging to witness emerging talent, especially in an Olympic year, the focus inevitably shifts to where the medals will come from. Seeing established stars like Duncan Scott excel, such as his performance in the 200m individual medley with a time of one minute 55 seconds, is crucial. It demonstrates that global superstars like France’s Leon Marchand won’t have an uncontested path to victory.
Which event are you most confident GB will win a medal in?
SP: Considering Duncan Scott’s remarkable achievement of winning four medals in Tokyo, the most by any Briton at an Olympic Games, it’s hard to look past him when forecasting British medal prospects. His performance in the 200m medley was undoubtedly the highlight of the meet. Additionally, when you factor in Ollie Morgan’s impressive swim along with Adam Peaty’s dominance in the 100m breaststroke, it’s clear that GB stands a strong chance of securing another medal in the 4x100m medley relay.
KP: The depth of talent among British male swimmers in the 200m freestyle event is impressive, giving us confidence that whoever steps up has a shot at a medal, perhaps even gold and silver. With Matt Richards and Duncan Scott qualifying, they both have strong potential.
On the women’s side, one swimmer who has truly impressed me is Freya Colbert. She has qualified in three events – the 400m medley, the 200m freestyle, and the 200m medley – and will also be part of the relay teams. Freya consistently delivers her best performances when it counts, showcasing remarkable versatility. Working across different events helps keep swimmers like her fresh and ready to excel.
KP: Katie Shanahan has expressed disappointment with her performance this week, particularly in the 200m backstroke. Although she has qualified, she believes she could have done better. However, I still believe she has great potential heading into the Olympics.
SP: While Adam Peaty’s recent performance might seem slightly off his best time, his 57-high result in the 100m breaststroke is still remarkable. The upcoming race between Peaty and China’s Qin Haiyang, who dominated at the world championships last year, is highly anticipated and could be one of the standout events of the entire Olympics.
As for Peaty’s chances of achieving a three-Peat in gold medals, it’s a challenging feat, especially with competitors like Qin performing at such a high level. Peaty’s personal struggles with alcoholism and depression add an additional layer of complexity. However, his recent break from competition might provide him with the mental freedom to approach the event without the same level of pressure he’s faced in the past.
Regarding the possibility of ending the 16-year wait for a female British gold medalist, it’s a tough call. The events where Britain is strongest are also highly competitive globally, such as the 50m and 100m freestyle and the backstroke events. Freya Colbert stands out as a contender in the 400m medley, but she faces stiff competition, particularly from Canada’s Summer McIntosh, who is considered a generational talent. Given the level of competition, expecting gold medals is not easy.
SP: Without a doubt, the race not to miss in Paris is the 200m individual medley featuring Leon Marchand. With the Olympics being held in France and the impressive $200 million aquatics center, all eyes will be on Marchand, who has been dominating the American Collegiate Championships and rewriting records. With his impressive lineage and skill set, Marchand is poised to become the new French swimming hero.
KP: Marchand’s presence will undoubtedly electrify the arena in Paris, especially considering he may compete in multiple events like the 200m butterfly and 400m medley. The atmosphere when a French swimmer claims victory is indescribable and truly unforgettable.
Prediction time: How many medals will Team GB win in Paris? SP: I’m optimistic about Team GB’s prospects and predict they will win eight medals. A year ago, this might have seemed ambitious, but my confidence is growing.
KP: I’m in agreement. I believe Team GB will match their performance from Tokyo and bring home a similar medal count.
