No doubt these comments fueled the long-standing rivalry which came to a head in the 2008 Beijing Olympics as Phelps edged out Cavic by 100th of a second for a gold medal. Cavic maintained that he, in fact, had touched the poolside first in the Olympic race but that the technology had not picked it up. He also made snide remarks about Phelps' choice of swimwear, the Speedo, and suggested that Michael should try some of the faster polyurethane suits. Presumably, partly in response to those remarks, Phelps celebrated yesterday's win by tugging at his swimwear while yelling up at his mother and sister in the stands and slapping at the water.
Michaels' time for the race was 49.82 making him the first man to break the 50 second mark for the Butterfly. Cavic came in at 49.95, a great time, but qualifying him only for the silver.
The American team was disqualified at last years championship after one of the swimmers got off too early at a start. This year the team is doing well with teammates; Matt Grevers, Mark Gangloff, Tyler McGill and Nathan Adrian bringing their "A games". The 400 Meter Individual Medley will take place today and although Phelps holds the world record and is a 2-time Olympic champion in this event, he will sit this one out and leave the challenge of winning another gold to teammate, Ryan Lochte.
With perhaps a lesson learned, Cavic graciously conceded the win of yesterday's race to Phelps, saying that he had great respect for Michael and considered him to be the best. He is not alone in that assessment as Michael Phelps is generally considered to be the greatest swimmer of all time.
Nancy Smith is one of the owners of RobbinsSports.com. an online retailer specializing in volleyball nets and basketball backboards.
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