Alain Bernard, Olympic champion and recently a defector from Speedo to Arena after having worn the widely-worn performance-enhancing LZR last year, on Friday fended off domestic rivals in a 100m free clash at the Saint-Raphaël meet this evening. In 48.83, he kept at bay Fabien Gilot (49.29) and Boris Steimetz (49.31).

On Saturday, Bernard clocked a best time of 1:48.07 to beat Clement Lefert (1:48.47) in the 200m freestyle. Bernard's girlfriend Coralie Balmy took the women's 200m free is 1:58.15.

Meanwhile, nomad coach Philippe Lucas and his squad are set to leave La Rochelle after six days for a permanent base at Dunkirk in a deal arranged by the president of the French swim federation and former international Francis Luyce, with the agreement of the town authorities.