EUROPEAN CHLORINATION: Big fish back for World Cup

THE Dolphins have been boosted by the return of breaststroke ace Jenna Strauch (pictured) who confirmed she will race the full World Cup program in Europe.

Strauch, who leaves tonight with her Australian teammates, will test out her rehabbed knee in Berlin, Athens and Budapest for the three-day weekends of racing.

Also committing to the World Cup program are Cate and Bronte Campbell, Mitch Larkin and world record holder and renowned workaholic Kaylee McKeown.

With the World Aquatics Championships in Doha in February and ahead of Paris Olympic Games, the World Cup will be back to the long course format.

For Tokyo Olympian Strauch, the European chlorination will provide much needed racing after missing out on the World Championships in Fukuoka.

“I haven’t really tested myself for some time … my last competitive swim was Nationals in April, so this is a great opportunity to get some quality racing,” she said.

“Watching the world championships from the sideline was great motivation for me and the racing in Europe will also allow me to test out the knee under heavy load.”

National head coach Rohan Taylor said the return of the 26-year-old would also bolster Australia’s already blue-chip relay stocks.

“Jenna is one of our athlete leaders, she’s a world championship silver medallist and she brings a lot to this team,” Taylor said.

“This World Cup campaign is all about giving the athletes coming back from injury or rest an opportunity to race – as well as exposing some of our younger swimmers to better competition and how to best handle the challenges of long-haul travel and racing.

“I can’t wait to see who seizes the opportunity and puts their hand up ahead of Paris.”

Additional financial incentives for winning at the World Cup include a USD $10,000 bonus for setting a world record as well as USD $10,000 bonus for athletes that complete a “crown” by winning the same event in all three cities.

Dates:

• Berlin: 6-8 October
• Athens: 13-15 October
• Budapest: 20-22 October