Duncan is ready to be his own man
The bulk of Duncan Scott’s international silverware may have come in the relay disciplines – but the Stirling University swimmer is determined to demonstrate his credentials across the board at this summer’s World Championships.
Despite being just 20, Alloa lad Scott can already lay claim to 12 major international medals at Olympic, World, European and Commonwealth level.
All bar two – 100m and 200m freestyle gold at the 2015 European Games – have been won as part of a team including the 4x200m freestyle and 4x100m medley relay silver medals at last summer’s Olympic Games.
Scott also served notice of his intent in the individual disciplines in Brazil when he became the first British man to reach the final of the men’s 100m freestyle since Bobby McGregor in 1968, eventually finishing fifth.
That form has been carried over into this year too as he set a new British record on the way to 100m freestyle gold at the British Championships – one of five individual medals won in Sheffield.
And with the 2017 World Swimming Championships fast approaching in Budapest from July 23-30, Scott is feeling confident.
“The World Championships have been a good competition to focus on and channel my efforts,”said the swimmer, who won gold in the 4x200m freestyle relay on his World Championship debut two years ago.
“I swam really well at the British Championships and I was pleased with the times considering what part of the season it was.
“I don’t tend to think about the Olympic silver medals too much, they are a great achievement and something I am proud of but I don’t feel pressure because of them.
“I’d like to put in a good showing in the individual events in Budapest and in the relays too.
“Looking at the age of the members in the team, we are looking strong for the years to come.
“The whole British team is in a great place at the minute and it’s great to be a part of that, there’s a really positive atmosphere.
“The relay will come down to who is the right make up for the team. It’s a chance to medal and to fight for podium positions. There is so much experience and it’s a very talented team.”
“I have only been to one European Championships and that was in London and it was a bit different from the usual Championships,” added Scott.
“It was just after the Olympic trials and the focus was not necessarily all on that with Rio on the horizon.
“Having next year’s Europeans in Glasgow is really exciting. I was born there so if I was able to compete there I am sure I will have lots of support. It would be a dream to compete in my home town again for such a big event, especially after the Commonwealth Games.
“Hopefully the public can all get behind the event and make it a great success – I know Scotland will put on a good show.”