Singapore, Nov 7 (IANS) South Africa’s butterfly world record holder Chad le Clos is hoping to compete in the freestyle events at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
The 21-year-old clinched the 200 metres freestyle gold at the Singapore leg of the FINA Swimming World Cup Wednesday evening in 1:42.29, in comparison to the current world record of 1:39.37, reports Xinhua.
“Tonight was more about racing against good competitors to see where I’m at. I hope to take part in the freestyle events in 2016 and will train to be the best in that in addition to the butterfly,” he said.
Le Clos, current holder of men’s 200 metres butterfly world record, allowed no surprise in the men’s 100m butterfly by taking the gold. He also won the 200m individual medley, bringing his total medal tally to five golds in two days of competition.
“At the end of the day when I hang up my swimming goggles, I want to know that I did my best in everything,” he said.
Katinka Hosszu of Hungary, who had a packed program in Singapore, claimed three golds and one silver from five events Wednesday. She won a total of five golds and two silvers.
“I did manage to break some Hungarian national records, and I am very (happy) about that, especially considering the 11 events I took part in!” she said.
Singapore’s Tao Li finished the 50m butterfly with a silver after competing against a strong field of qualifiers including Hosszu. Sweden’s Sarah Sjoestroem won the gold in 25.34 seconds.
Earlier, the Singapore Swimming Association, organiser of the Singapore leg of the World Cup, announced that it will host the event for another four years.