Stubbins’ Olympic hopes sink

By Marc McGowan
HAILEYBURY Waterlion star Kelly Stubbins’ Olympic Games dreams are over after failing to qualify for the national team at last week’s Australian Swimming Championships in Sydney.
The 24-year-old competed in the 50-metre, 100-metre and 200-metre freestyle at the event.
Stubbins’ main hope was in the latter and she qualified 11th for the semi-finals, but could only manage the ninth-fastest time for the final.
However, dual world record holder Stephanie Rice pulled out to focus on her other swims, allowing the local hero to take her place in lane eight in the final, but she couldn’t grasp her opportunity.
Stubbins ultimately touched the wall in eighth spot in 2:01.27 – almost five seconds behind winner and new Australian record holder Bronte Barratt.
She was unable to progress to the final in either the 50-metre or 100-metre freestyle events later in the week.
Waterlions head coach Wayne Lawes said Stubbins was disappointed she was unable to perform up to her ability.
“It’s up to her now to pick up the pieces and I’m sure she’s learnt a lot about trials and the pressure of trials and that’s what happens.
“It’s about being able to handle some of those expectations.”
Lawes also praised the astounding times swum at the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre.
“It was an amazing meet. You don’t see eight world records in one meet ever,” he said.
“Kelly will march on and learn a lot from this and about herself.”
Stubbins will not have long to mull over her results, with the World Short Course Swimming Championships starting next week in Manchester.
She qualified for the competition at the Australian Short Course Championships in August.
Stubbins will contend in the 200-metre freestyle and the 4 x 100-metre and 4 x 200-metre freestyle relays.
Lawes is on the Australian coaching staff for the championships.