Keeney Through to 3m Springboard Semis
Diving: Women’s 3m Springboard
Athlete: Maddison Keeney
Venue: Maria Lenk Aquatic Centre
WA diver Maddison Keeney has overcome a scare to qualify for the semi finals of the women’s 3m springboard on Day 7 of the 2016 Rio Olympic Games.
Keeney made a slow start to competition, but firmed as the qualifications developed, securing her berth to the next round with two solid, final dives.
Having earlier in the competition claimed a bronze medal in the 3m synchro, Keeney admitted it had been a relief to overcome a shaky start and get through.
“I was so scared but I knew that my last two dives are my more safe dives,” said Keeney. “I had a really good warm-up but my first two dives were not of the quality that I wanted but apart from that I made it through to the semi-finals so I can’t really complain.”
“These rounds don’t count anything towards the final so I try and use it as experience so I can learn from it and take it through to the next round.”
When asked about the impact of the bronze medal she won earlier this week with Annabelle Smith in the 3m synchronised event, Keeney indicated it was nothing by positive.
“I think I have already relaxed and I think it has helped me because I know I am already leaving here a winner in my eyes so I just want to dive my best and am not thinking about the result.”
“I have been diving well all year and been up there in the top four and five in the World Series competitions so I have expectations of myself but overall I just want to dive how I want to dive and if I can compete to the level that I want, then I will be happy.”
The water colour has distinctly changed from blue to green in recent days with Rio 2016 citing problems with the alkalinity and assuring divers that the quality of water is safe with the below statement.
“The Organizing Committee of Rio 2016 would like to inform you that the quality of the water has been checked and the diving pool offers healthy conditions for training and competition”.
Whilst many are talking about the water colour, Keeney indicated that it wasn’t an issue for her.
“I am feeling ok my skin is a bit dry and a bit scaly but I am trying not to open my eyes because I don’t want to catch anything,” laughed Keeney.
Qin and Keeney will be joined in competition in the 18 women semi-final by fellow Australian Esther Qin.
Jo Banning
olympics.com.au