Posted August. 13, 2008 07:05,
I just sighed.
Park Tae-hwan said this yesterday after winning the silver medal in the 200-meter freestyle in the Beijing Olympics. He set the Asian record of 1:44:85 in the event, but lost to Michael Phelps of the United States, who won the gold with a world record time of 1:42:96.
Park said he is far from Phelps` ability. Though he lost, he said Phelps will be a good competitor for him, adding, I want to better compete against him in the London Olympics in four years.
Park lost but still showed a stellar performance. When asked what was different in winning the gold and silver, he said, I didnt hear the Korean national anthem. He thanked his colleagues who trained hard at the athletes village in Seoul with him.
Here are excerpts of Park`s interview.
▽ Winning the silver medal
Phelps was really great. After the meet, I said I really congratulate you on setting the world record. I hope he can win eight gold medals in the Olympics. I personally am satisfied with setting the Asian record.
▽ Benchmarking Phelps
Phelps is excellent in accelerating after making a turn. I am not that good. I will focus on training my lower body to make a fast and smooth turn. I wish I were taller (Park is 183 centimeters). I thank my parents for making me who I am today.
▽ His strategy for the 200 meters
I just thought about doing my best. I tried to chase Phelps next to me. Since I couldnt control my pace, I just focused on breaking my record.
▽ His remaining goal
I will do my best in the 1,500 meter freestyle Sunday and in four years, I want to do well against Phelps in the London Olympics.