Welshmen Matthew Richards and Kieran Bird were crowned Olympic champions after Team GB made history by defending their Men’s 4x200m Freestyle title.
Richards, who won a sensational individual silver on Monday, swum a rapid third leg in the final after Bird helped Great Britain secure the fastest qualifying spot for the final after La Défense Arena. The pair earned Britain’s first Olympic gold in the pool at the Games alongside teammates James Guy, Tom Dean, Duncan Scott and Jack McMillan on a magical night in the French capital.
The relay squad became the first in any sport to defend a relay title on the greatest stage, with the same final quartet retaining their title from Tokyo three years ago.
James Guy led the team to a flying start before a well-judged swim from Dean gave Richards a decent advantage heading into the second half of the race. Richards recovered from the earlier disappointment of missing out on the 100m Freestyle final by surging into a commanding lead, before Scott raced home in a stunning time of 1:43.95 to clinch the gold.
“I’ve got the colour I wanted now,” said Richards. “It’s incredible to be in the group with these boys again, defending our Olympic title.
“It’s the first time any four people have defended an Olympic title in history, male or female, in any event. We made history and it’s a privilege and honour to be a part of the team. It’s a pinch-me moment, it’s my third Olympic medal and second Olympic gold which is pretty nuts to think about.
“If you’d have offered me that when I was a little kid, I would’ve snapped your hand off for it, so it’s a dream come true.
“It’s just as special as three years ago, your first one is always going to be special but my family were here in the crowd. To be able to see them and give them a hug at the end of the race makes it even more special. This week has been a rollercoaster, missing out on gold but getting a medal in the 200m then missing out on the 100m final but winning gold in the relay. Sport is unpredictable and I’m loving every minute of it.”
