MP hails ‘spectacular performance’ as Dean does his home town proud
Theresa May has hailed Tom Dean for his ‘spectacular performance’ on Tuesday morning, saying the 21-yearold’s victory in the men’s 200m freestyle has done Maidenhead proud.
Dean won gold with a time of
1.44.22s, a new British Record, holding off teammate Duncan Scott who finished just 0.04s behind for the silver medal.
“It was fantastic to see Maidenhead’s Tom Dean win the Gold in the 200m freestyle this morning.
“These Olympic Games have been like no other and I know that Tom has overcome so much, which makes his achievement all the more special.
“Tom has done his community, and country proud. I want to join everyone in Maidenhead to congratulate Tom on his spectacular performance and his well-deserved Gold Medal.”
Four-time Olympic medallist swimmer Rebecca Adlington celebrated Dean and Scott’s achievements, insisting the race was one for the history books.
On Twitter, she said: “Oh my! WOW @tomdean00 @Dunks_Scott! That was one of the greatest races I have ever seen. EPIC, INSANE, INCREDIBLE!”
Adlington won two gold medals at Beijing 2008 in the 400m freestyle and 800m freestyle - breaking the world record of Janet Evans in the final. She won bronze medals in both events at London 2012.
Adam Peaty, who powered Team GB to a gold medal in the 100m breaststroke on Monday, expressed his delight for his compatriots.
“I hope this race gets the recognition it deserves,” said the world record holder on Twitter.
“Great to see such a force of talent on the team, absolutely sensational from @tomdean00 @Dunks_Scott.”
BBC Sport presenters Dan Walker and Gary Lineker both reacted to the video of Dean’s family and friends’ jubilation.
“I can’t stop watching this,” said Walker. “What a race from @tomdean00 & @Dunks_Scott.”
“How amazing to have family and friends who care this much.”
Lineker added: “Wow! Magical.”