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Canadian open-water swimmer Sanderson books Tokyo ticket with third-place finish

SETÚBAL, Portugal — Canada's Kate Sanderson booked her ticket for the Tokyo Games on Saturday by finishing third in the open water FINA Olympic marathon swim qualifier.

It will be the first Olympic appearance for the 21-year-old Toronto native.

"It feels great, I’m really excited. It hasn’t really sunken in all the way yet," said Sanderson, who trains in Vancouver. "I’m really grateful and excited to be heading to Tokyo."

Hungarian Anna Olasz won gold in two hours one minute 55.50 seconds. Paula Ruiz of Spain took silver in 2:01:58.00 and Sanderson was third in 2:01:58.40.

A total of 40 female swimmers completed five laps of a two-kilometre course at the Parque Urbano de Albarquel venue.

Three-time Olympian Stephanie Horner of Beaconsfield, Que., finished 21st (in 2:05:29.30) and didn't qualify.

The men's race is scheduled for Sunday.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 19, 2021.

The Canadian Press


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