Ian Thorpe wins the 200 free. Hoogie, the flying dutchmen, is second and Phelps is a close third in a new American record. Keller is fourth just ahead of Grant Hackett.
First, congratulations to Ian Thorpe. Many questioned whether he was ready to win this race, including moi. My hats off to the Australian great for showing up in very big race.
Second, Hoogie swam well. If he had better turns then he'd be champion. He should be considered the favorite in the 100.
Third, caps off to Phelps. Yes, this is the "deflationary" moment dreaded by all who saw Biondi branded a "failure" when his Spitzian quest was made mathematically impossible.
I now think that things will really turn around for the US at this meet. Peirsol has just won the 100 back and I believe tomorrow will be big day for the USA.
I see an upset and new world record in the 800 free relay as a real possiblity. I also think that Phelps will lower his world record in the 200 fly tomorrow.
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That's why I like Bob Costas as a sportscaster. In the same comment that Spitz's 7 golds as being out of reach (but Phelps still having a chance at 8 total medals), he pointed out that both of Phelps' individual swims have been lifetime bests.
Any reporter who uses "disappointing" and Phelps in the same sentence, should be made to swim the 200 fly and the 400 IM. :D
That's why I like Bob Costas as a sportscaster. In the same comment that Spitz's 7 golds as being out of reach (but Phelps still having a chance at 8 total medals), he pointed out that both of Phelps' individual swims have been lifetime bests.
Any reporter who uses "disappointing" and Phelps in the same sentence, should be made to swim the 200 fly and the 400 IM. :D
