The CBDA (Brazil’s swimming federation) has opted to wait until the last minute to decide the second spot for the 100 free at the World Championships later this month.
Nicolas Oliveira and Fernando Ernesto dos Santos both had best times of 48.72 between the three relevant Brazilian qualifying meets, which tied them for the second qualifying spot behind Marcelo Chierighini (48.11). The decision was made that there will be a swimoff, and according to the Brazilian Blog do Coach, the swim-off won’t happen until all parties arrive in Barcelona.
The federation had hoped to figure it out before leaving, however with Oliveira swimming at the World University Games in Russia this week, the schedule didn’t work out.
Both swimmers are on Brazil’s official roster, and both are expected to swim in the 400 free relay, so the event change is allowed to be made despite the passing of the FINA roster deadline.
Oliveira has the better pedigree of the two as a sprinter, and has one of the best starts in the world, but de Santos has momentum on his side. Up until this year, his specialty was as a backstroker, but about a year ago, and for the first time seriously this year, he has turned his attention to the freestyles with great success.
Livestream?
I give the advantage to Nico! Your Tucson students and family will be cheering you on. Go for it peaceful warrior!
Curious to see what Chierighini can put up, I think he has the potential to break 48.
I believe Chieriguini can blast a 47 too, but i think he lacks a bit of consistency in his swim.In Maria Lenk, he made a poor start in his 50 free(Where he made 21.88).In 100 free, his start was amazing, coming along with Nicholas Dos Santos, and made a 22.82 in his first 50.He needs to race more often.
I wish Cielo was swimming the 100 otherwise the Brazilians would have a respectable relay team, but yeah it’s good to see the young guys stepping up.
If Cielo knees waas 100% I think he would swim.. but it is better to take a little easier know to be able to step up for a powerful relay by 2016..