The first Duel in the pool was conceived in 2003 when the Americans took on the Australians in a head to head scored competition. Since that point the Duel in the pool saw America race the Aussies again in 2005 and 2007 winning both tilts. In 2009 and 2011 the Americans face a team of European Allstars which will continue again this year in Glasgow.
In 2011 the Americans defeated the Europeans by a score of 181.5-80.5.
This year’s upcoming short course event will held on December 20th-21st at the Tollcross International Swimming Centre. The site of the 2014 Commonwealth Games, “We are delighted the fantastic Duel in the Pool is taking place in Glasgow’s Tollcross International Swimming Centre.” said Councillor Archie Graham, Executive Member for Commonwealth Games 2014 and Chair of Glasgow Life.
“In the lead up to Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games, the City of Glasgow will welcome a number of exciting sporting events, such as this, which will further cement our position as one of the top 10 sporting cities in the world.
“The Duel in the Pool is a brilliant opportunity for the people of Glasgow and Scotland to come along, support the athletes and get a taste of what to expect next year.”
Although the full rosters have not been set Michael Jamieson will be one of the athletes representing Europe, “I watched Duel in the Pool four years ago when it was in Manchester and it looked like a great event so I’m thrilled to be part of the team this time around,” said Jamieson.
“For me it will be special as it’s being held in my home town of Glasgow and it will be a great opportunity to try the newly refurbished pool ahead of the Commonwealth Games next year.
“There’s no doubt it will be a very tough event as the USA are the strongest nation in world swimming but with an impressive European team and with the backing of a passionate home crowd behind us we hope to push them all the way.”
British Swimming Chief Executive David Sparkes also shared his excitement in being able to host such a competition, “We are delighted to welcome some of the world’s greatest athletes to Glasgow to again see the best swimmers in Europe compete against the greatest swimming nation in the world, the USA,” said Sparkes.
“We look forward to seeing some great swimming with the potential for world records in what we anticipate will be one of the fastest pools in the world.”
You can register a request for tickets here