Rob Welbourn - European Championships 2009 update

Rob was deeply disappointed that he didn't medal in the 200 IM in Beijing so the bronze medal in Reykjavik will have gone some way in bolstering his confidence.

In the relay last night Rob's final relay leg was an outstanding piece of swimming which won him the admiration of not only the GB spectators but other European supporters in what was a determined and inspirational effort to challenge the Ukrainian lead taking the GB team from 5th to 2nd.

A well deserved British record and a silver medal!

However regardless of these two great performances Rob will return to the UK disappointed if he doesn't manage to secure the Gold tonight in the 400 freestyle final.

It is by no means a nailed down certainty - recent ill health before the Championship and the apparent improvements in his main rival Ludwig of Germany will make this a tall order.

In the heats this morning Rob and his closest adversaries Ludwig and van der Zanden sailed through posting times of 4.23.24, 4.25.11 and 4.25.38 respectively.

The finals take place later this evening.

Further update:

Rob Welbourn need not have worried about his chances tonight in the 400 freestyle in Reykjavik.

At 200 metres Rob had already taken control of the race and never looked in danger producing a final time of 4.09.15 coming in a full 6 seconds faster than nearest rival Lugwig of Germany and Isayev of the Ukraine.

Congratulations to Rob on his European Gold from everyone at Lincoln Vulcans!!