- Gose overcomes his own doubts: mental big step forward
Isabel Gose has highlighted the special significance of her Olympic bronze medal. "The international medals I've won so far have always been against incredibly strong women," the 22-year-old said after placing third in the 1500m freestyle. She had doubts before the Paris Games race. "I was very nervous and had great respect, and I'm just thrilled that everything went well."
Gose had already won two bronzes and a silver at the February World Championships. However, several strong swimmers like the now eight-time Olympic champion Katie Ledecky had opted out of the title fights. This time, the entire world elite was present. "I'm really proud that our hard work, the last training camps, and the last training weeks have paid off so well," said Gose.
Gose had often lost to the Italian Simona Quadarella in important races. This time, she placed the 25-year-old fourth. "It was a competition I've gotten to know well over the last season," said Gose, happily noting, "I beat her in the right race."
Gose knows that she will be under more scrutiny after her first Olympic medal. The pressure won't ease. "I have to be aware of that," she said. "But I believe I took a huge mental step forward today."
Gose's bronze medal in Paris was not made of gold or silver, but of iron or steel, symbolizing the resilience she demonstrated in overcoming her competitors. The other swimmers in the elite field vied for titles with equipment made of similar materials.
