McClatchey hopes forward thinking will pay dividends next year

By Ryan Bangs, Sportsbeat

CAITLIN McClatchey abided by 2010 rules at the British Gas Duel in the Pool last week - and believes her decision will pay dividends despite being left behind in Manchester.

FORWARD THINKING: Caitlin McClatchey was out of her depth in Manchester but believes that is all soon to change (Getty Images)

The 24-year-old kick started her campaign at the Manchester Aquatics Centre by coming home last in the 100m freestyle in a time of 55.60 seconds - over four behind from British winner Fran Halsall.

And things followed a similar path, less than 24 hours later, as McClatchey again finished last in the 200m freestyle with Allison Schmitt taking the race honours in 1:51.67 minutes.

McClatchey was one of few in Manchester to shun the soon-to-be banned 100 per cent polyurethane suits which have helped shatter countless world records this year including 43 at the Rome World Championships.

Instead McClatchey - who claimed 4x200m freestyle relay bronze in Italy this summer - opted for an all-textile suit, the norm as of January 1, and admitted she wouldn't have had it any other way.

"In my races I was wearing one of the new style suits that will be used as of next year - and I just got completely washed out," said McClatchey.

"But I just came to Manchester to race hard with a view to next year. I am training hard at the moment and I just wanted to see where I am at and try and get some points for the European team.

"There was a bit of a language barrier with the European team but we all got behind each other regardless of nationality and it was really good.

"We were kind of told what events we would be swimming but it was all quite tentative and we didn't really know what was going to happen.

"But once we all got together things became a lot clearer and it was a great experience."

McClatchey joined a host of swimmers from Britain, Italy and Germany as part of a European select team, but could do little to stop the USA lifting the inaugural Duel in the Pool crown.

The Americans triumphed 185-78 in Manchester but despite the one-sided nature of the meet McClatchey has called for more of the same over the coming years.

"The atmosphere was really good and it is great that so many people are coming to watch swimming events in Britain," she added.

"The American's gel so well as a team.  Unfortunately, we had just one day to get to know our team-mates, but we tried really hard.

"And it was amazing to watch the USA's team spirit and hopefully we can duel again and do better next time."