posted Apr 1, 2008

I must admit that I don't know much about the swimming selection structure or the format for major swimming events but I would think that the rules are there for a reason i.e. there is a similar format required at international events. So the trials/National Championships are run along the same lines to imitate a World Class environment. Plenty of other sports have these types of rules. I can think of several sports require their "professional" athletes to turn up for training sessions on time otherwise they don't get to train! Let alone major campetitions! Other competitors have to abide by the rules and however petty they may seem, they are generally there for a reason. What I would be more worried about is selecting athletes 5 months prior to the Olympics. Surely you aren't geting the top athletes at anywhere near their peak? 5 months is a long time to go up or down the rankings. I suppose it is the same for everyone though. Having said all that, I am hoping that kingslandroar's assessment of the situation is correct (!), as to lose a top athlete in an event because of this mess is harsh for the team to say the least!

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posted Apr 1, 2008

Entirely reasonable, and she wouldn't have got in anyway. Her career is over, and quite right too - she's a proven choker.

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posted Apr 2, 2008

In reply to ShinyDavidHowell…..
Firstly - rules are rules and she’s taken responsibility for what has happened. Even though rumour has it that exceptions were made for other swimmers in other finals!!

Secondly – “She’s a proven choker” – In 2004 she was the fastest women in the world for her event going into the Olympics. This pressure along with overtraining, pressure from others and the fact that GB hadn’t been in that position going into the Olympics for a long time led to a girl that performed underpar. Anyone after this could have just quit, but Mel didn’t and battled through and overcame the disappointment of Athens. Since then she has consistently swam good times; won 5 medals at the Commonwealth Games (the most decorated female athlete ever at one Games for England in any sport); has been a member of several medal winning relay teams and might I say – is still ranked in the GB top 3 in various events.
Yes she hasn’t swam at her best since the last Olympic trials but I think her stats and career history proves she is an asset to the GB Team.

Finally thirdly – how can you say “she wouldn’t have got in anyway” – she went 55.28 in the heat, her p.b is a 54.62 and 4th place was a 56.12. I rest my case.

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posted Apr 2, 2008

Mel Marshall broke the rules, if they had let her compete it would be unfair to the others that had turned up on time.

Mel said herself "I was five minutes late, it's my own responsibility".

Her coach even agrees with the rules "Mel should have been in that call room, she should have reported, but she didn't and suffered the consequences.

If Mel and her coach accept the rules then there is no room for argument from anyone else.

She is stronger at the 200m freestyle and i am sure she will have learned her lesson.

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posted Apr 2, 2008

I presume that if she qualifies for the 200m free and goes to Beijing she will be underconsideration for the 4X100. She wasn't going to qualify for the Ind 100 Free so I don't think this has any impact, correct me if i'm wrong.

I would like to say a huge well done to Mark Foster though. Ledge.

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posted Apr 2, 2008

Firstly congratulations to Foster. Very fitting after being snubbed for Athens in 2004.

He is under no illusions that sprint swimming has moved on considerably - with the w.r now around a second better than his best mark - but I would love to see him make the final in Beijing and be the first British guy under 22 seconds. Quite possible I think.

Heartbreaking for Mel but she knows the competition routine by now.

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posted Apr 2, 2008

In response to Shiny David Howell - Your comment smacks of ignorance. The athlete in question deserves far more respect than you have afforded her. She has handled the situation professionally and with maturity accepting responsibility and moving on. Maybe you could do the same - it's not 2004 anymore.

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posted Apr 2, 2008

To all those who are criticising the rules regarding Mel Marshall's non participation. Can you imagine any of the cyclists so successful at the recent World Championships arriving late for a training session let alone for a major event? Thought not. Perhaps one of the many reasons why they are considered the best in the world whilst the swimmers are often perceived as being a waste of lottery money.

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posted Apr 2, 2008

I think he should be sponsored by Fosters.

'Drink this and you will look like me... mate.'

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posted Apr 5, 2008

In response to ShineyDavidHowell - you're comment is both offensive and untrue.
She had the 3rd fastest time in qualifying and yet currently being ruled out of the relay?
Those who are saying she should own up, please look at the facts, she did. However, British Swimming should let their best swimmers swim!! This is just rediculous.
Lets hope she makes it for the 200m final this weekend. We're all behind you Mel!

Is also great to see Foster back!

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