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Sharp Tuneup Effort From Anthony Ervin In 50 Free (21.98) A Good Sign As U.S. Trials Near
- Updated: May 14, 2016
Throughout his career, a reign split into two distinct halves, Anthony Ervin has never been known for producing swift midseason performances. So when the 2000 Olympic co-champion in the 50 freestyle (alongside fellow American Gary Hall Jr.) surged to victory in his signature event at the USA Swimming Pro Series stop in Charlotte on Saturday night, eyes opened.
Posting the only sub-22 outing in the field, Ervin shot to the top of the podium in 21.98, an obvious sign that the 34-year-old is on a positive trajectory heading to next month’s Olympic Trials in Omaha. Ervin recently shifted his training site from Trojan Swim Club to the David Marsh-led contingent at SwimMac Carolina.
Ervin defeated a field that was strong on star power as Canadian Santo Condorelli (winner of the 50 butterfly in 23.82) was second in 22.15, followed by Josh Schneider (22.16), Cullen Jones (22.30) and Jimmy Feigen (22.47). Ervin’s time matched the performance he posted when tying Hall for the gold medal at the Sydney Games. At the time, Ervin was coming off his freshman year at California-Berkeley.
The career of Ervin is known for being split into two parts. The first chapter featured his Olympic title and world championships in 2001 in both the 50 freestyle and 100 freestyle. Ervin then disappeared from the competitive scene, bopping around the country while doing odd jobs, including teaching swim lessons. He began his comeback in 2011 and has been a staple of Team USA since placing fifth in the 50 free at the 2012 Olympics in London. His return has also featured the best times of his career.
Even when Ervin was clocking 21-mid times in 2012 and 2013, he never cracked the 22-second barrier during tuneup action. Rather, Ervin has been an athlete who produces decent performances in the leadup to big moments, only to shine when it matters most. By going 21.98 (13th in the world) ahead of Omaha, Ervin sent an unmistakable message that he’ll be a factor.
Whether Ervin can nail down a third Olympic berth …
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