Ever since Lochte cruised passed Michale Phelps this mid-week at the U.S. National Championships, it spelled trouble for the Gold Medalist.
Of an other-worldly kind perhap?
Has Phelps been jinxed by good gal and rival Ryan Lochte?
A fourth place for the 200 meter backstroke today was comparable to standing still in the proverbial water for the Champ, and left quite a few shaking their heads in disbelief come the end of the race.
When a reporter primarily focused on Lochte poolside mid-week, and practically ignored Phelps, it jarred the sensibilities.
And, signalled that perhaps the spotlight was shifting its focus at the U.S. National Championships this year.
After all, the hype and the hoopla has usually intensely focused on Golden Boy Phelps.
The first big loss to Lochte (Ryan placed 1st & Michael a 2nd) underscored that it just may be a slow downhill slump from there for the Olympic Gold Medalist (Phelps).
Post: 08/07/10
http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2010/08/michael-phelpsdragged-in-200-medley-at.html
The 200 meter backstroke competition proved to be the clincher earlier today.
Ryan Lockte swan to glory for a first place showing (1:55.58) to rack up a stellar credit that turned out to be 2nd-fastest placement in the world this year.
The strong breakout lead against 2nd finisher (Aaron Peirsol) and 3rd placement swimmer (Tyler Clary) said it all.
In his prime, Lockte's star is on the rise in the swim world, without doubt.
Michael Phelps was not just a big disappointment, but a downright headshaker, when he struggled to place in the 4th spot.
Lockte perceived the exciting scenario this way.
"I knew I had to get out fast and hold on for dear life."
"Those last 50 yards I could see that everyone was coming and thought:
"This is going to be bad."
Meanwhile, Peirsol was pumped up over Lockte's strategy.
"He swam that race like you're supposed to swim it," Peirsol said.
"He basically called our bluff. I didn't even see him until the second turn, and by then I was too far back to catch up."
Meanwile, Michael - in spite of his devastatingly poor performance, remained cool-headed as he assessed the swim in the aftermath.
"I don't ever want to do that ever again," Phelps said.
I hope not, Michael.
It was painful to watch from this perch, let me tell 'ya.
In spite of the three big wins (some record-breakers) the Beijing King acknowledged that he was disappointed with his performances.
Post: 08/04/0
http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2010/08/michael-phelpsgolden-boy-nabs-100-fly.html
Post: 08/04/10
http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2010/08/michael-phelpswins-butterfly.htm
Post: 08/04/10
http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2010/08/though-he-wasnt-pleased-with-speed-he.html
"I was setting myself up for this," Phelps said.
"I'm only going to be happy if I'm perfect. If I'm not perfect, I'm going to be hard on myself."
Phelps said he would have to re-establish his training regimen.
Promises! Promises! Promises!
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