Léon Marchand Shines at Incheon Short Course World Cup
Léon Marchand, the talented swimmer from Toulouse, made headlines at the Short Course World Cup in Incheon, South Korea, by securing the gold medal in the 400m medley with a remarkable time of 3'58”30. This victory not only marked his third win in Incheon but also showcased his ability to improve upon his own French record, which he had set just a week earlier in Shanghai. Marchand's strategy involved starting off at a slower pace, allowing him to gain momentum and ultimately overtake Japan's Daiya Seto in the final meters, demonstrating his prowess in the breaststroke and freestyle segments of the race.
Marchand's performance in Incheon follows a successful stint in Shanghai, where he achieved a hat-trick by winning the 100m and 200m medley events. His latest win in the 400m medley represents a continuation of his strong form as he prepares for the final leg of the Asian tour in Singapore from October 31 to November 2.
Challenges Faced by Marchand
Despite his success, Marchand faced challenges during the competition. He opted out of the 200m breaststroke and freestyle events, citing accumulated fatigue from travel and competition as contributing factors. After winning the 200m medley with a time of 1 min 50 sec 91/100, Marchand expressed his exhaustion, stating that his legs were
and he struggled to maintain his usual performance level. Nevertheless, he remains focused on achieving a hat-trick in the 400m medley, showcasing his resilience and determination.
As he gears up for the upcoming 25m World Championships in Budapest from December 10 to 15, Marchand views this Asian tour as a transition period, allowing him to recover and refine his skills after a lengthy post-Olympic break. With his sights set on future competitions, the young swimmer continues to inspire fans with his dedication and talent.
