– I can not be more than happy with it, says the 22-year-old a short while after the test run of 200 meters breaststroke.
She is still breathing a little heavily and notes:
– 200 breaststroke is a painful distance.
So late as in mid-May was Sophie Hansson’s personal record in the 200 meter breaststroke 2.27.64.
Already in the spring European Championships, she lowered it on two occasions – when she came to Tokyo it was 2.24.79. When the trials were decided in the Olympic pool on Wednesday, it was time for a new lowering.
Sophie Hansson’s new personal record is 2.23.82. It was the twelfth fastest time in the trials and thus she will swim the semifinals tonight.
What is the explanation for this development?
– I have trained damn hard this summer. To keep the last bit of 100 breaststroke I have done a “200 work” even though 200 meters breaststroke is definitely not my main goal. Obviously it has helped me at both 100 and 200, she continues with a smile.
When Sophie Hansson is asked if 200 meters breaststroke can be something to invest in later, she says:
– Even in the future, 100 will be my main focus, but it is clear that I keep the opportunity open.
For just a couple of days ago stood one disappointed Sophie Hansson with tears in her eyes after finishing sixth in the first Olympic final of his life in the 100 meter breaststroke. She really wanted a medal.
With a certain distance, the emotions are slightly different.
– I am sixth in the world, and this year I have made a very good journey from 1.07 to 1.05 in the 100 meter breaststroke. It would have been unfair to myself if I had not been happy with that achievement, says Sophie Hansson.
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