Food poisoning caused Cassie Patten to miss the World Championships qualifying event in Israel which was won by Keri-Anne Payne. Patten is hoping Payne can beat Olympic champion Larisa Ilchenko, who pipped Payne in the final 100m in Beijing.
“I’ll be keeping my fingers crossed for Keri-Anne,” said Patten. “It’s going to be in the sea which for these events is usually the case so it’ll be a tough race but I’m sure she can cope. The fact that the Russian girl is going to be there but I’ve got every confidence Keri-Anne can get gold.
“I was understandably gutted when I found I couldn’t go but the rules are very strict about it – I did try and appeal but I had no joy. It’s a shame but the way I look at it greatness isn’t just about being great, it’s also about overcoming obstacles along the way. It’s all part of a learning curve and I’m still quite young so there’s plenty of time to put things right.”
Despite her World Championships hopes being dashed, Patten has been given a significant boost by Kellogg’s, who have announced a £3m sponsorship renewal with British Swimming.