Blackburn & Fletcher Set Records In Charlotte
The Charlotte Grand Prix in underway in North Carolina, with both Lisa Blackburn and Julian Fletcher setting new Bermuda records during their quest to qualify for the 2012 London Olympics.
Ben Smith, National Swim Coach for Bermuda, said: “This is the 6th meet of the Grand Prix series and once again it has attracted many of the top US swimmers and top non US swimmer alike. With this being the home base of Bermuda’s Roy-Allan Burch, it has become a familiar stop for the season.”
“Both Lisa Blackburn and Julian Fletcher were up first in their main events with Olympic qualification on their mind. Both were well prepared, shaved, rested and ready to go.
“Lisa was first and swam away from her heat finishing in 7th place overall with a new National Record of 1:11.7. This puts her under 1 second away from the time needed to qualify so she has a great chance in tonight’s final to lower her time and reach the games.”
“Julian had a very strong swim where he also won his heat, broke the National record and finished 13th overall which puts him in the B final for tonight. His time of 1:03.89 brings him closer to the Olympic qualifying time and so he also has a great chance to reach it in the finals tonight. So far this is a great start and I hope that they both can convert these times tonight.”
“Julian and Lisa will be at it again tomorrow in the 200 breast while Roy-Allan will have his first swim in his main event, the 50 free,” concluded Coach Smith.
Come on Lisa & Julian , we know you can do it !!