Swimming Australia Cancels Grand Prix in Canberra; Cites Case of Whooping Cough as Impetus_

CANBERRA, Australia, June 19. SWIMMING Australia has today cancelled the relay camp and 2012 Grand Prix scheduled for the AIS in Canberra this weekend, as a precaution to ensure athletes stay healthy and have the best possible preparation for London.

Following the announcement from the AIS today of a case of whooping cough from two of their visiting athletes, the decision was made to limit any risk of infection, mild or otherwise.

Swimming Australia Head Coach Leigh Nugent said the decision to cancel the camp is purely a precaution.

“We have spoken with the AIS and, whilst we are comfortable with the procedures they have put in place, we have decided to take this precaution.”

“Originally we’d planned to have this camp as an opportunity to come together for some further relay preparation and the chance for some of the athletes to race and time trial, a month or so out from the Games,” said Nugent.

“From a relay perspective we are confident we’re on track with our preparations and will fine tune things when we get to Manchester in July. As for the racing side of things, I’m sure the individual coaches will arrange time trials if they see fit to replicate that preparation.”

The decision to cancel the event means members of the Australian Swim Team will now stay in their home states to continue their preparations for London, with the first group of athletes heading to Europe early next week.

The EnergyAustralia Swim Team will next assemble for a Staging Camp in Manchester from July 14 before heading to London on July 22.

The above article is a press release submitted to Swimming World Magazine. It has been posted in its entirety without editing. Swimming World offers all outlets the chance to reach our audience by contacting us at Newsmaster@swimmingworldmagazine.com. However, Swimming World reserves the right to choose what material is posted.

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