Aussies win women's relay gold in the pool

03 August 2002

Australia swam to success in the 4x100m women's freestyle final at the Manchester Aquatics Centre earlier tonight.

Henry's golden hopes came true at the Aquatics Centre tonight

The Australian squad fought off the English competition tonight to claim the 4x100m freestyle gold medal. Their tactics regarding swimming orders were a source of speculation with Alice Mills chosen to start and set the pace.

Jodie Henry was the second swimmer selected. The fastest swimmer on the squad, she achieved a three metre lead for the Australians.

Petria Thomas and Sarah Ryan completed the final legs for the team and helped to set a new Games record of 3:40.41.

England's entrants claimed the silver award after finishing in 3:41.47. They kept tracked Australia for much of the race but were unable to capitalise.

The race for third place was a tough battle between Canada and Scotland. The Canadian team won through and finished in 3:45.33.

Alice Mills, the youngest member of Australia’s swimming team, after her part in the gold medallists’ Games record said: “I’m so excited. I’ve been thinking about a gold medal all week. I wanted it so badly. I can’t believe it. I don’t remember hurting at all. But then, when I do well, I don’t worry about pain.”