By JARROD POTTER
SURGING through unchartered waters, Olympian-in-waiting Josh Beaver has kept his good swimming form going with an impressive campaign at the Japan Open.
Beaver proved his worldwide credentials across his three backstroke disciplines at the meet – held last week at Tokyo’s Tatsumi International Pool – touching in for three podium finishes.
He surprised some of the world’s best to touch in 25.30 to earn first in the 50m backstroke on the final day after impressive swims for second place in the 200m (1.57.3) and third in the 100m backstroke (54.08).
“It was a great way to experience racing internationally again, against some of the best in the world swimming backwards,” Beaver said. “I was very happy with the 200 Backstroke, time-wise – it has really set me up for a great couple of months leading into the Olympics and to lay a 1.57 at this time of the season is pretty rewarding.“
“To take out the 50 backstroke was great, a great way to finish off the meet. Shows I have some speed early on in the preparation which I can only build on for the 100 Backstroke come Rio.”
The Open has laid the groundworks for Beaver’s maiden Olympic Games campaign – featuring in the 100m and 200m backstroke – and he believes his form and fitness are right up there heading towards Rio.
“I’m currently in Japan until the 29th, utilising the great facilities in Japan and the partnership that Australia has formed with Japan and am looking forward to getting back in town and laying some great foundations for Rio,” Beaver said. “Overall the preparation is going great, have put myself in a great position to perform come the Olympics which are only 70 odd days away.”
“I am very thankful for the people that have helped me get to where I am now and look forward to the Olympics and what the future holds for me in swimming.
“I think it’s great for the City of Casey to have multiple Olympians getting ready to compete at the games and hope the community really gets around one of the greatest events to be held once every four years.“
Beaver’s Olympic Games campaign begins Sunday 7 August with the 100m backstroke heats.
