 Bernard also won silver and bronze at the Beijing Olympics
|
Frenchman Alain Bernard became the first swimmer to record a sub 47-second time in the 100m freestyle.
The 25-year-old clocked 46.94 seconds to win his semi-final at the French championships in Montpelier.
It eclipsed the previous world record mark of 47.05 set by Australian Eamon Sullivan at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
"To become the first swimmer to go under 47 seconds and in France in front of my fans, that is huge," said the Olympic gold medallist.
One slight concern regarding the ratification of the record could involve the type of suit Bernard was wearing, which is still awaiting approval from swimming authorities.
Bernard, who has an arm span of 2.05 metres, had a previous best time for the 100m this year of 48.52 set last month.
Regarding the potentially controversial new suit, Bernard's coach Denis Auguin said: "He just did what he does best, the best he could.
"Of course there is new equipment being used but everybody else has it too."
Bernard was one of four French swimmers to go under 48 seconds in the event and French team boss Christian Donze said: "I don't think any other nation can do that at the moment."
No comments:
Post a Comment