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Back To NewsIf there were any doubts that Ben Hance was the world’s best exponent of the 100 metres backstroke S14, the powerhouse swimmer ended them on Day 9 of Paris 2024.
The defending Paralympic champion, who also won the 2022 and 2023 world championships in the event, broke his own world record in the heats, setting the new mark at 56.52.
He was marginally slower in the final, but his 57.04 was enough to overpower Brazil’s Gabriel Bandeira and Great Britain’s Mark Tompsett, who took the minor medals.
“No pressure winning the first one, but everyone expects you to win the second one,” Hance said of his performances across two Games.
“I’m glad I have the gold medal now, and hell, even got a world record.”
Upon winning his race, Hance looked up to the sky in honour of his late father.
“I just want to thank my father for everything he’s done,” he said.
“He always loved my backstroke and I’m glad I gave him the gold medal tonight.”
Enjoyed this read? Recap Gold Medal No.16 here
By: David Sygall
Published: 27 December 2024
