Beryl Gastaldello Sets National Record at French Short-Course Championships
The French Short-Course Swimming Championships in Montpellier concluded with impressive performances, highlighted by the record-breaking feat of Beryl Gastaldello in the 100m backstroke. This competition, held as a selection event for the upcoming World Short-Course Championships in Budapest from December 10-15, showcased remarkable talent, with top swimmers like Beryl Gastaldello, Maxime Grousset, and Mewen Tomac delivering standout performances.
Beryl Gastaldello’s Record-Breaking Performance
Beryl Gastaldello stole the spotlight on the penultimate day of the competition, setting a new French record in the 100m backstroke with a time of 56.07 seconds. This record-breaking swim was witnessed by her 94-year-old grandmother, who was seeing Gastaldello swim competitively for the first time. Speaking with enthusiasm after her achievement, Beryl Gastaldello shared, “It’s great, this French record! I’m happy, and I feel that I still have a lot left in me,” according to the French Swimming Federation.
In addition to her record in the 100m backstroke, Beryl Gastaldello continued to excel with victories in the 100m freestyle (51.66) and the 100m individual medley (57.93). She capped off her campaign with a swift 24.76-second finish in the 50m butterfly, securing her spot on the French team for Budapest. This performance further solidified Gastaldello’s status as a versatile swimmer, ready to compete against the best on the world stage.
Maxime Grousset’s Dominance
Another star at the championships was Maxime Grousset, who dominated across multiple events and claimed six titles in total. His series of victories began with a 20.96 finish in the 50m freestyle, which followed gold medals in the 50m butterfly (22.50), 100m butterfly (49.50), 100m individual medley (51.93), 50m breaststroke (26.42), and the 100m freestyle (46.13). Grousset’s powerful performances in each event underscored his versatility and strength, and his multi-medal achievements put him in strong contention for success at the World Championships in Budapest.
Mewen Tomac Completes Backstroke Treble
Mewen Tomac also made his mark, completing a rare backstroke treble at the French Championships. He opened with a qualification-worthy time of 1:51.15 in the 200m backstroke, where he was joined by fellow swimmer Antoine Herlem, who clocked in at 1:51.94. Tomac continued his streak with a solid performance in the 100m backstroke, finishing in 50.28, although this time awaits confirmation for Budapest qualification. His 23.29 finish in the 50m backstroke, while strong, has not yet met the qualification standard for the world event. In the 200m individual medley (IM), Tomac showcased his range by winning with a time of 1:54.07, underscoring his capability to compete across multiple events.
Rising Stars Set to Compete in Budapest
Several other French swimmers are expected to join the lineup in Budapest. Analia Pigree, known for her explosive speed, secured a spot with her victory in the 50m backstroke (26.21) and also in the 50m freestyle. Mélanie Henique is expected to join Pigree in the 50m freestyle, adding depth to the French women’s roster. On the men’s side, Damien Joly secured his place with strong performances in the 800m and 1500m freestyle events, while Roman Fuchs earned qualifications in both the 200m and 400m freestyle.
Pauline Mahieu, who finished second to Beryl Gastaldello in the 100m backstroke, qualified for the World Championships with her impressive performance and also earned a berth in the 200m backstroke. With a blend of experienced athletes and rising stars, the French team is shaping up to be a formidable presence at the World Championships.
The Road Ahead to Budapest
The French Short-Course Championships served as a vital selection event for the World Short-Course Championships in Budapest. The French Swimming Federation will confirm the final roster in the coming days, but the performances in Montpellier have already hinted at the team’s potential on the global stage. With record-setting achievements by Beryl Gastaldello, strong performances across a range of disciplines, and a mix of veteran experience and young talent, the French team is poised for an exciting campaign.
As anticipation builds, fans and followers are eager to see how the French swimmers, led by athletes like Beryl Gastaldello, Grousset, and Tomac, will fare against international competition. With Gastaldello’s national record, Grousset’s dominant run, and Tomac’s backstroke treble, the French swimmers have shown they are ready to make waves in Budapest, bringing national pride and high expectations as they take on the world’s best in December.
