Payne to go for third world gold in Russia
BySportsbeat
Published 11/05/2015 at 12:08 GMT
Keri-Anne Payne will lead the British charge for open water medals at this summer's World Championships in Kazan after being named as part of the marathon swimming team.
Eurosport
Image credit: Eurosport
The Olympic silver medallist from Beijing 2008 has a fine track record at the World Championships after taking 10km gold in 2009 and 2011.
She will be joined by Danielle Huskisson while the men’s team comprises Jack Burnell and Dan Fogg.
The duo have been in solid form this season with Fogg finishing third in the Billiton Aquatic Super Series in Perth and Burnell winning the FINA Marathon World Cup in Cozumel.
And British Swimming open water lead Bernie Dietzig believes all four swimmers have shown their class this season and believes the trip to Russia could prove pivotal for Britain’s chances at Rio 2016.
"We purposely chose the toughest competitions for selection and the athletes we have selected have delivered under pressure and at the highest level of racing," he said.
"Along that pathway our women and men have raced hard and produced some great results, with some individuals establishing themselves firmly in the top ten.
"The World Championship 10km will be the first stage of selection for the 2016 Olympic Games with the top ten finishers qualifying for Rio.
"The race will be fiercely competitive but, considering this season's performances, preparation and results, I believe that our swimmers are well prepared and ready to deal with any challenge thrown at them."
© Sportsbeat 2015
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