Olympic swimming great Michael Phelps will compete in a British pool for the first time this month as the leading competitors from both sides of the Atlantic go head-to-head in the Duel in the Pool.
Billed as swimming’s Ryder Cup, the event will pit the cream of Britain, Germany and Italy against the best America has to offer at the Manchester Aquatics Centre on December 19 and 20. The showpiece meet features six male and six female swimmers from each of the three European nations and will be broadcast live on BBC TV.
Phelps will undoubtedly be the star attraction, having collected eight gold medals in Beijing last year to claim his place as the most decorated Olympian.
Inverurie’s Hannah Miley has earned her place in exalted company and she believes the event shows that British swimming is on the crest of a wave.
She said: “I am really looking forward to it. I have heard it has already sold out, so that is pretty exciting.
“It seems to have caught the imagination. Swimming has really increased in popularity in the UK in recent years. I guess success in the pool has helped that.
“It was always been here but there was not always much interest outside the Olympics or Commonwealth Games. There seems to be a rise in popularity, which is great.
“It is an exciting event and a massive challenge.
“I will be up against some of the best in the world.
“It is not just the recognisable names you need to look out for, but you also need to look over your shoulder.
“There is always someone ready to surprise you, which is annoying when you have been trying to be top dog for ages.
“It drives you on to keep pushing because when you get to this level everyone is a challenger.”
Before then Miley is determined to be among the honours at the European short course championships in Istanbul from December 10 to 13.
Miley said: “Last year I came fourth so I would love to get my hands on a medal.
“It is not going to be easy, however, as the competition is really strong.
“I have never been to the venue in Istanbul so it will be interesting.
“I want to go there and be on my personal best. I think it is possible and, hopefully, that will give me a chance.”