Now, France’s two biggest male stars of 2013 will both participate in the 2013 Duel in the Pool.
According to France’s L’Equipe, Jeremy Stravius has joined Yannick Agnel, previously known, in accepting a position on the 2013 squad of all-stars that will compete against the Americans in a short course meters meet in Glasgow, Scotland on December 20th and 21st. The paper also reports that Fabien Gilot, Florent Manaudou, and Fred Bousquet have been invited, but not yet publicly accepted those invitations.
Stravius has long been a well-known swimmer both to French and International swimming audiences, but in 2013 he had a truly explosive season. He was the man who anchored the French to gold in the 400 free relay in a come-from-behind win over the Americans and Australians.
He also was a part of the gold-medal winning 400 medley relay, took silver in the 50 back, and bronze in the 100 back. Stravius’ versatility really showed through in 2013 as well. At the French National Championships, he was 2nd in the 200 free, won the 100 fly, won the 50 and 100 backs, and won the 200 IM.
The Europeans’ roster isn’t quite as filled out as the Americans’ yet, but it looks like Europe could, for the first time in the history of this meet, make a competitive opponent for the United States.
Danish head coach Nick Juba has confirmed on twitter that Jeanette Ottesen and Lotte Friis will swim at the duel in the pool.
Gilot had the 46.90, not Stravius.
He will be hard to beat SCM…his walls are exceptional, especially on freestyle!
I’ve watched the 4 x 100 free relay from world champs over and over and agree….this guy’s wall and more importantly – his underwater dolphin – was extraordinary in the final leg!!!!! Basically did a ‘Phelps’ turn and dolphin. Will be great to watch at next olympics…and it seems Mr Phelps will be there too!
😆