Swimming To Get ‘ryder Cup’ Event

Proposals to stage a ‘Ryder Cup-style’ swimming event in Manchester later this year pitching teams from Europe and the United States against each other have been unveiled.

The concept for the event is based on a ‘Duel in the Pool’ between the US and Australia in 2000 which produced a flurry of exposure for the sport.

The Americans have agreed in principle to take part in the event, which is being co-ordinated by British Swimming, but exact participants and event details were still under discussion.

British Swimming chief executive David Sparkes said: ‘It would draw on a number of European nations to take on the mightiest swimming nation on earth.

‘There are serious discussions going on and we’re hoping to do it later this year in Manchester. We think there is a real opportunity to do something similar now that Europe is a powerhouse of swimming.’

British Swimming performance director Dennis Pursley said the competition could bring new fans to the sport.

‘Potentially, it’s very exciting. It brings big attention to the sport and it’s another opportunity for the athletes to prove themselves. I understand there is an agreement in principle and I’d be surprised if it didn’t happen.’