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Women's 200 Freestyle Semi-final

Jul 30, 2012

Olympic Games, London, Day 3 semi-finals

Women's 200 freestyle 

Camille Muffat of France swam the fastest time this year in this event at the Mare Nostrum in Canet in June - only to be trumped by Allison Schmitt at US Trials just a few weeks later. Muffat was fastest off the start and despite a strong challenge from Schmitt maintained what seemed like perfect control of the race. She led until the 150 mark - but then Schmitt and Bronte Barrett (AUS) made their move. Barratt's push was good enough for a first place finish - touching in 1:56.08. Schmitt was second in 1:56.15 and Muffat relegated to third (1:56.18).

In the second semi, Germany's Silke Lippok was out first all the way to the 100 (57.46) while world record-holder and defending champion Federica Pellegrini (ITA) hung back with the field. Caitlin McClatchey (GBR) was strong in second (57.52) and had taken the lead by the 150. But Pellegrini turned on the kick for the home stretch and touched in a convincing 1:56.67, McClatchey in second (1:57.33) and Kylie Palmer (AUS) in third (1:57.44).

Barratt leads the field into tomorrow's final, followed by Schmitt and Muffat. Pellegrini is a comfortable 4th,  and hanging on to her bid for a medal in this event,  American teenage star Missy Franklin rounded out the 8 in 1:57.57.

Canadians Barbara Jardin and Samantha Cheverton  - both of Montreal and both first time Olympians - finished in 10th (1:57.91) and 11th (1:57.98).