Powell sixth in Olympic trials

Tuesday 13th April 2004, 12:00AM BST.

COMPETING at the British Swimming Olympic Trials at Ponds Forge, Sheffield, Ian Powell reached the final of the men’s 200m backstroke. The Beau Sejour Barracuda placed a very creditable sixth overall in a tough final.

Powell – now based at Millfield School – went into the final in eighth position but he swam excellently to make up two places.

His time of 2-05.58 was also a new island long-course record.

First and second place honours went to Great Britain and Commonwealth Games medallists Gregor Tait and James Goddard, who both finished inside the Olympic qualifying time of 1-59.15. Tait finished in 1-57.42, Goddard 1-57.70.

Only fractions separated the remaining finalists, including Powell, who between them fought hard to snatch third.

That was taken by Scott Houston, of Ren 96, who recorded a time of 2-05.06.