Team GB’s Gymnasts are tonight basking in the glory of more Olympic success as Louis Smith and Max Whitlock secured Silver and Bronze in the Individual Pommel Horse final. It’s the second medal this week for both athletes following the Men’s Team Bronze last Monday.
While Smith is a household name to many, 19 year old Whitlock was a relative unknown going into the games. But it was he who set the early standard at the North Greenwich Arena, his routine being enough to take the early lead with a near faultless 15.600. Indeed he would only be beaten by team mate Smith and eventual winner Krisztian Berki of Hungary.
While Smith and Berki managed the same final score of 16.066 the Hungarian was awarded the Gold after conducting his performance at a higher level of difficulty.
Speaking after being awarded his medal Beijing Bronze medallist Smith, while being delighted with his improvement, was disappointed not to win the Gold.
“I’m disappointed to have been bumped down for the second games in a row, but I guess I’m used to it now. But to come second to one of the best pommel horse workers the world has ever seen, yes I’m a happy guy.”
Whitlock was also pleased with the final result. “I can’t believe quite how my first Olympics has gone. To come away with two medals is fantastic.”
The three medals won so far shows a marked improvement for British gymnastics. On Monday Kristian Thomas and Beth Tweddle both have a chance to add to GB’s medal haul in their individual finals.
Rob Lilley
Tags: Gymnastics, Krisztian Berki, london 2012, Louis Smith, Max Whitlock, North Greenwich Arena, olympics, Pommel Horse, Team GB
