Tuggle Delighted With Gold Win
Claire Tuggle won the United States of America’s first gold medal during the 2018 Pan Pacific competition at the Damodar City Aquatic Centre in Suva yesterday.
The 14- year old stopped the clock at 1 minute 58 seconds in the women’s 200metres freestyle. Australia’s Lani Pallister won silver with a time of 1minute 59 seconds and third was Japans Nagisa Ikemoto with 1min59secs.
Tuggle said she had just recently returned from a national competition and had to train by herself at home before coming to Fiji.
Tuggle added she was happy with the win and has sights set on more international competitions.
“Coming off nationals it was hard having to train by myself at home but I was really happy with that swim,” she said.
“The aim was to break the national record tonight but I was off by 500th of a second.
“Internationally I have been to one swimming competition but this is my first time representing USA.
“The aim is to win as many medals as I can and also help the team in any way I can.
“After this week I am hoping for more international competition. Right now I love my stay here and competition has been good,” she added.
Tuggle is looking forward to her next swim today where she will lead Team USA relay.
– Edited by Osea Bola
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