Erik Mäesepp satisfied after European Championship debut, aims for high-level pool and open water swimming
Translated from Estonian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Erik Mäesepp made his adult championship debut at the European Swimming Championships in Paris.
- He finished 18th in his heat of the 3km open water race, struggling with the fast pace and strong current of the Seine River.
- Mäesepp expressed satisfaction with his first major experience, aiming for both pool and open water swimming at a high level.
Erik Mäesepp marked his debut at the European Swimming Championships in Paris, competing in the 3km open water elimination race. Despite finishing 18th in his heat, Mäesepp reflected positively on his first major championship experience.
He acknowledged the challenging conditions, including a fast pace and strong competition that made it difficult to achieve his desired position. Mäesepp found himself swimming alone for a significant portion of the race. "I got stuck in a group at the beginning and then ended up last there, and was last the whole time, but I think for the first race, one can be satisfied," he said.
I got stuck in a group at the beginning and then ended up last there, and was last the whole time, but I think for the first race, one can be satisfied.
The conditions in the Seine River also played a role, with Mäesepp noting a noticeable current, particularly when swimming against it. Despite the difficulties, he remains ambitious, stating his desire to excel in both pool and open water swimming at a high level.
The current was more noticeable when swimming against it.
Originally published by Postimees in Estonian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.