InsideJapan News Network

The Japanese team have won their first medal - a bronze - at the Federation Internationale de Natation's World Swimming Championships, thanks to Ryosuke Irie in the 100-metre backstroke.

Irie was beat to the top two positions by French duo Camille Lacourt and Jeremy Stravius, who finished first and second, respectively, in the Shanghai race.

The 21-year-old swimmer told the Mainichi Daily News about his feelings during the race, which took place yesterday (July 26th).

"I knew my rivals were going fast early, but I stayed calm and got myself ready for the last 50 metres," he said.

"I've finished fourth in the 100 many times in my career. I know how bad it feels to finish fourth. Now I've gone one better than my fourth-place finish in the 100 at the worlds in Rome two years ago, so I want to go one better in the 200 as well."

The Japanese swimmer grabbed three golds and one silver medal at last year's Asian Games, held in Guangzhou.

Written by Susan Ballion  


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