Remarkable Momiji Nishiya tops street skateboarding podium of teenagers - everything you missed from Tokyo 2020 overnight
Such was his dominance and the fact he became the first British swimmer to defend an Olympic tile it’s understandable that Adam Peaty’s gold dominated the morning.
But there was more good news for Great Britain - in both water and on land - as well as a race for the ages in the pool, and possibly the youngest podium ever.
The youngest podium ever?
Lots of us cried when we were 13 but few, if any, because we had just won Olympic gold.
But that's the valid excuse of Japan's Momiji Nishiya who cried tears of joy having won the title in the skateboarding women's street event. Fellow 13-year-old Rayssa Leal from Brazil took the silver with Japan's Funa Nakayama, aged 16, taking the bronze.
Although she initially stumbled and missed the landings on her first two tricks, Nishiya nailed her last three, bringing her total above Brazilian prodigy Leal.
That meant only her compatriot Nakayama could prevent Nishiya from claiming glory. But she was unable to land her last trick and it was another skateboarding gold for the hosts - Nishiya's victory coming after Japan's Yuto Horigome won the men's skateboarding gold on Sunday.
I'd be shocked if there has ever been a younger podium (school sports days don't count...).
Silver lining for Yee after tough triathlon in hot and humid Tokyo
Alex Yee continued Britain's run of success in Olympic triathlon with a silver medal on his debut behind Norway's Kristian Blummenfelt, in the brutal heat and humidity of Tokyo.
The 23-year-old was looking to follow in the footsteps of Alistair Brownlee by making it three successive British victories at the Games but an inspired Blummenfelt dug deep to run away from the Briton to claim glory at the Odaiba Marine Park.
Jonny Brownlee was bidding for a medal at a third successive Olympics having won bronze in London and silver in Rio but he had to settle for fifth.
Alistair Brownlee failed to make the team in his bid to win a third straight gold but, having established himself as heir apparent, Yee had legitimate hopes of glory.
The Kent athlete is the fastest runner in triathlon history and, having stayed in contention during the 1.5 kilometres swim and 40km bike ride, Yee surged to the front on the 10km run.
The group of contenders gradually dwindled as the oppressive conditions took their toll. But it was Blummenfelt who provided the decisive kick to pull clear of Yee and New Zealand's Hayden Wilder over the final kilometre.
It was a hugely impressive win by the Norwegian, one too good for Yee who was ecstatic to win silver on his Olympic debut.
“It's a bit bizarre really. I am just a normal guy. But it shows dreams do come true, it’s amazing. It’s been a tough preparation, I felt I was as prepared as I could have been so I am happy I got the silver,” the 23 year old said.
Of failing to land the elusive gold he was after to complete his set (he’s won bronze and silver in London and Rio) Brownlee said: “It was really tough. I gave everything I had, I couldn’t give anymore and am proud of the race [I ran]. I raced as hard as I could.”
There were farcical scenes at the start when half the field dived in to begin the race while the other half stayed on the pontoon, blocked from entering the water by a boat.
Organisers tried frantically to stop those in the water but they had swum around 150 metres before being intercepted by another boat and taken back to the pontoon.
Team triumphs for Team GB against Canada
After being made to work hard in the first half Great Britain’s men’s sevens side put their foot on the gas in the second to see off the stubborn challenge of Canada.
At half time a converted Dan Norton try was the only thing separating the teams at the Tokyo Stadium.
After the break Norton, Ross McCann and Robbie Fergusson all crossed the whitewash after to earn a 24-0 win.
They face Japan in Pool A at 8.30am.
Britain’s men’s hockey XI made it a double victory over Canada later in the morning. It took them a while to get going but two goals from Liam Ansell and one from Sam Ward helped the side to a 3-1 win.
That's now two wins from two, after their opening win against South Africa, with Germany up next.
More hopes of British medals in the pool
The morning - going forward, most probably the day, and maybe even the Games (at least from a British point of view) - belonged to Peaty but there was more success for Team GB at the Tokyo Aquatics Centre.
First up the British duo of Duncan Scott and Tom Dean both qualified for the final of 200m freestyle. Scott laid down a marker for the final by winning his semi final and serving up the quickest time of 1 minute 44.60 seconds in the process. Dean qualified fourth fastest and will also fancy his chances of battling it out for ultimate glory.
Next was Kathleen Dawson who impressed on her way to making the final of the 100m backstroke. The 23 year old’s time of 58.56 seconds was the fifth fastest of the qualifiers and the Scot will be hoping to get her hands on a medal.
The Terminator takes out Katie Ledecky in race for the ages
The race of the morning in the pool came in the women’s 400m freestyle final after Peaty’s brilliance. It had been billed as the possible race of the Olympics and it didn’t disappoint.
All-time great and five-time Olympic champion Katie Ledecky took on future all-time great and rising star Ariarne Titmus. The last time the pair had met came in the 2019 World Championships with the young Australian beating the illustrious American.
From the start the pair took the battle to each other. To break Titmus you have to go out hard and Ledecky did just that - after 200m the American was six feet ahead of the Australian.
But then the expected battle everyone wanted materialised as Titmus came back at the London 2012 and Rio 2016 champion. By the 350m mark they were level and in the final 50m the Aussie ace pulled clear to win in 3 minutes 56.69 seconds.
To illustrate just how impressive the battle was, Ledecky’s time of 3 minutes 57.36 seconds was still the second-fastest mark in her career, behind only her world and Olympic record time 3 minutes 56.46 seconds achieved in Rio.
Afterwards the woman they call ‘The Terminator’ (her first name is shortened to ‘Arnie’) was in shock over both winning gold and dethroning Ledecky.
“I can’t believe it, I’m trying to contain my emotions,” Titmus said. “I wouldn’t be here without [Ledecky] setting the standard. I’ve just been trying to chase her. She’s really fun to race. I can’t believe I actually pulled it off.”
With her victory came the first viral moment of the Games as her coach Dean Boxall indicated he was quite happy with his charge’s golden success.
Titmus’ coach Dean Boxall looked like every living room across the country. What a moment. pic.twitter.com/j7z9a3nRuQ
— Tyson Whelan (@tyson_whelan) July 26, 2021
Naomi Osaka continues to impress
After the shock early exit of Ash Barty Naomi Osaka is now the favourite to win a gold to to add to her four grand slam titles. Having come into the tournament having not competed in two months there were a few question marks hanging over the 23 year old.
But, as with her first-round 6-1 6-4 win over China's Zheng Saisai, Osaka looked to be in fine form without needing to reach for her A-game. In her second-round clash against Wimbledon quarter finalist Viktorija Golubic she encountered few problems on the way to a 6-3, 6-2 victory.
Osaka’s under huge pressure as the home hope and face of the Games, but she’s been impressive in the first two rounds and it’s clear she is "refreshed and happy again" as she said she was after the opening-round win.
As it happened
04:52 AMThe youngest podium ever?
The youngest podium ever?
Lots of us cried when we were 13 but few, if any, because we had just won Olympic gold.
That's the valid excuse of Momiji Nishiya who cried tears of joy having won the title in the skateboarding women's street event.
Fellow 13-year-old Rayssa Leal from Brazil took the silver with Japan's Funa Nakayama, aged 16, taking the bronze.
I'd be shocked if there has ever been a younger Olympic podium?
04:24 AMGreat Britain beat Canada
Great Britain beat Canada
It took them a while to get going but two goals from Liam Ansell and one from Sam Ward helped the side to a 3-1 win.
That's now two wins from two, after their opening win against South Africa, with Germany next.
04:22 AMGreat Britain's restore two-goal advantage
Great Britain's restore two-goal advantage
Since their unexpected goal the Canadian's were on top and looking good for an equaliser. But Liam Ansell tapped in from close range with three minutes to go to all but ensure they end the match with two wins from two.
Great Britain 3-1 Canada
04:13 AMCanada pull one back
Canada pull one back
Having had no shots on goal the Canadians capitalise on some sleepy defensive work from Great Britain. The ball was passed into the D but with plenty of bodies in front of GB keeper Oliver Payne there appeared to be little danger. However, Fred van Son reacted the quickest and his shot found its way into the bottom corner.
We have a game on our hands.
With six minutes left it's Great Britain 2-1 Canada
03:54 AMGreat Britain double their lead
Great Britain double their lead
In the men's hockey - having hit the post in the second quarter Sam Ward scores from a penalty corner with four minutes left of the third quarter.
It's now Great Britain 2-0 Canada
03:47 AMHere's the men's hockey goal
"That's a fabulous goal!"#TeamGB take the lead against Canada in the men's hockey.
Watch live on the BBC Red Button - https://t.co/xJNQPUmBG3 #bbcolympics #Toyko2020 pic.twitter.com/mIlOeXYLYl
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 26, 2021
03:41 AMGreat Britain break the deadlock against Canada in the men's hockey
Here's the men's hockey goal
"That's a fabulous goal!"#TeamGB take the lead against Canada in the men's hockey.
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 26, 2021
Watch live on the BBC Red Button - https://t.co/xJNQPUmBG3 #bbcolympics #Toyko2020 pic.twitter.com/mIlOeXYLYl
03:41 AMGreat Britain break the deadlock against Canada in the men's hockey
Great Britain break the deadlock against Canada in the men's hockey
That's a fine goal from Liam Ansell early in the third quarter. The ball came in from the right near the byline and Sam Ward, seeing he'd pulled the defenders towards him, knocked the ball back to the unmarked Ansell who slotted home into the corner. That was the goal they've been seeking.
Great Britain 1-0 Canada
03:32 AMNaomi Osaka eases through to the next round
Naomi Osaka eases through to the next round
The favourite to win gold to add to her four grand slam titles encountered few problems as she beat Wimbledon quarter finalist Viktorija Golubic 6-3, 6-2. She hadn't competed for two months before this tournament but you wouldn't have known it - she's under pressure as the huge home hope and face of these games BUT Osaka has been impressive in the first two rounds.
03:24 AMIt's half-time in the men's hockey
It's half-time in the men's hockey
And it's 0-0 in Great Britain's clash against Canada.
03:21 AMUSA win the men's 4x100m free relay gold
USA win the men's 4x100m free relay gold
The hugely impressive Caeleb Dressel (who will surely win more than this gold) blasted off at world record pace but after 150m it was France who led. At the halfway mark it was really tight with both USA and France neck and neck, there were just 0.3 seconds on it.
From there on, however, the USA pulled clear. In the last leg Zach Apple grew the lead and the USA won in 3:08.97.
Italy claimed silver 1.14 behind, with Australia picking up bronze.
03:16 AMThe morning session of the sevens is over
The morning session of the sevens is over
Here are all the results
POOL A - Fiji 24-19 Japan
POOL A - Great Britain - 24-0 Canada
POOL B - New Zealand 50-5 South Korea
POOL B - Australia 19-29 Argentina
POOL C - South Africa 33-14 Ireland
POOL C - USA 19-14 Kenya
England next face Japan at 8.30 am
03:06 AMConfirmation that...
Confirmation that...
...Kathleen Dawson has qualified as fifth fastest for the 100m backstroke final.
03:03 AMNaomi Osaka is the favourite for gold
Naomi Osaka is the favourite for gold
Since Ash Barty's shock first round defeat the Japanese star is the highest ranked player and is clearly the one to beat.
She's out on court at the moment and facing Wimbledon quarter-finalist Viktorija Golubic in the second round.
The first set went according to plan with Osaka winning 6-3.
03:00 AMKathleen Dawson comes third
Kathleen Dawson comes third
Regan Wild of the USA wins in an Olympic record of 57.86secs.
Dawson's time of 58.56secs should be good enough to make it to the final.
Cassie Wild finished back in last in a time of 1:00.20
02:57 AMBritish duo in the 100m backstroke semi-final
British duo in the 100m backstroke semi-final
Kathleen Dawson and Cassie Wild are about to get the bid for the final under way. It's the first semi so important to make is quick one.
02:54 AMTeam GB's men's hockey side are facing Canada
Team GB's men's hockey side are facing Canada
Halfway through the first quarter the score is 0-0.
02:45 AMAdam Peaty's win has shocked no one
Adam Peaty's win has shocked no one
He's that good and that dominant...
For live reaction to his second gold (he's the first Briton to successfully defend his Olympic title) go here - Adam Peaty wins Olympic swimming double in style and Team GB's first Tokyo 2020 gold medal - live reaction
If you want to read how he became the greatest British swimmer ever then you might like to also read this brilliant, in-depth look at what made Adam Peaty such a world-beater - Unleashing ‘the Beast’: how Adam Peaty became invincible
02:37 AMI think Ariarne Titmus' coach, Dean Boxall, is happy...
Titmus’ coach Dean Boxall looked like every living room across the country. What a moment. pic.twitter.com/j7z9a3nRuQ
— Tyson Whelan (@tyson_whelan) July 26, 2021
02:35 AMThe Terminator speaks...
I think Ariarne Titmus' coach, Dean Boxall, is happy...
Titmus’ coach Dean Boxall looked like every living room across the country. What a moment. pic.twitter.com/j7z9a3nRuQ
— Tyson Whelan (@tyson_whelan) July 26, 2021
02:35 AMThe Terminator speaks...
The Terminator speaks...
(That's new 400m freestyle champion Ariarne Titmus, please keep up...)
“I can’t believe it, I’m trying to contain my emotions. I wouldn’t be here without [Ledecky] setting the standard. I’ve just been trying to chase her. I can’t believe I actually pulled it off.”
02:29 AMTitmus wins!
Titmus wins!
The Australian has done it - and she nearly broke the world record in the process - 3:56.69! To beat someone of Ledecky's experience and calibre was so very well impressive. She reeled her in and then went with 50m to go! Li Bingjie from China took the bronze.
02:27 AMTitmus turns first at 350m!
Titmus turns first at 350m!
Did Ledecky go too early?
It's not over as the American has so much experience.
02:27 AMAt the 300m mark
At the 300m mark
It's still Ledecky but Titmus is starting to come back - there's nothing to split them.
This in the battle they wanted!
02:26 AMLedecky has decided to push the place
Ledecky has decided to push the place
To break Titmus you have to go out hard and the American is doing just that. After 200m Ledecky is first and six feet ahead of the Australian.
02:25 AMLedecky is the fastest seed and world record holder
Ledecky is the fastest seed and world record holder
After 50m Titmus holds the advantage over Ledeky but they are second and third with Canadian McIntosh leading.
02:23 AMThe Terminator is about to take on the Golden girl
The Terminator is about to take on the Golden girl
Ariarne Titmus’ nickname is ‘Terminator’. Why? I hear you ask (though, it’s late and I admit I may be hearing things in the dead of night…)…Well, it’s because her first name is shortened to ‘Arnie’.
Can she Terminate the golden hopes of one of the greatest swimmers of all time in the 400m freestyle?
She beat Katie Ledecky last time out at the 2019 World Championships and hopes are high for a humdinger of a race.
02:07 AMWhen you've just realised you've won Olympic gold
We love that reaction! 😅
Turn your sound on for this. #Tokyo2020 #bbcolympics https://t.co/qbPwzOdJdK pic.twitter.com/neNQMllG0s
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 26, 2021
02:02 AMSarah Vasey misses out on the final
When you've just realised you've won Olympic gold
We love that reaction! 😅
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 26, 2021
Turn your sound on for this. #Tokyo2020 #bbcolympics https://t.co/qbPwzOdJdK pic.twitter.com/neNQMllG0s
02:02 AMSarah Vasey misses out on the final
Sarah Vasey misses out on the final
She went out quickly and was in third after 50m, she held on well in the second half to finish in fifth in 1:06.87.
Is that enough? Alas, it isn't.
The finalists are - Tatjana Schoenmaker (RSA) Lilly King (USA) Lydia Jacoby (USA) Sophie Hansson (SWE) Yuliya Efimova (ROC) Evgeniia Chikunova (ROC) Martina Carraro (ITA) Mona McSharry (IRL)
01:58 AMSarah Vasey is in the second semi final of the 100m breaststroke
Sarah Vasey is in the second semi final of the 100m breaststroke
Can she make the final?
The first semi was slow - won by the USA's Lydia Jacoby in 1:05.72.
01:55 AMAustralia fall to defeat in sevens opener
Australia fall to defeat in sevens opener
They were 24-0 down at the break to Argentina and despite a second-half fightback lost 29-19.
01:52 AMDuncan Scott wins
Duncan Scott wins
That was an impressive second 100m from Scott, he's definitely in the final.
His time of 1:44.60 is quick, the fastest of the two semis, in fact.
Tom Dean is fourth and his time 1:45.34 will also see him into the final.
Two Britons set to go for gold - great news.
The 200m freestyle finalists are - Duncan Scott (GBR) Kieran Smith (USA) Danas Rapsys (LTU) Tom Dean (GBR) Martin Malyutin (ROC) HWANG Sunwoo (KOR) David Popovici (ROU) Fernando Scheffer (BRA)
01:48 AMAt the halfway
At the halfway
Scott is second and Dean third - the American Smith is now leading.
Can they hold on in the front three?
01:47 AMGreat start for Tom Dean
Great start for Tom Dean
He's first after 50m and Scott is third.
01:45 AMTime for British duo Tom Dean and Duncan Scott
Time for British duo Tom Dean and Duncan Scott
In the go in the 200m freestyle. semi-final.
The first semi was slow so a decent pace in this race will help both's aim of making the final.
Scott is the fastest in the world this year,
01:43 AMGold for Canada's MacNeil
Gold for Canada's MacNeil
Maggie MacNeil of Canada created a (smallish) shock as she won the Women’s 100m butterfly pushing China’s Zhang Yufei, who turned in world record pace, into silver. Australia’s Emma McKeon took the bronze.
01:40 AMNo messing with New Zealand sevens side
No messing with New Zealand sevens side
Any early thoughts of a HUGE shock in the sevens was quickly kicked into touch with a very big boot as South Korea lost 50-5 against one of the tournament favourites.
The South Koreans had a conversion attempt to move level at 7-7 with the Kiwis - the chance was missed and, as expected, New Zealand won with ease.
01:34 AMMore British interest in the pool
More British interest in the pool
By Jeremy Wilson
As well as Adam Peaty, whose 100m breaststroke final will start at 3.12am UK time, this morning's swimming will also include semi-finals for three serious Team GB medal prospects. Tom Dean and Duncan Scott go in the 200m freestyle at 2.43am and Kathleen Dawson swims in the 100m backstroke semi-final at 3.59am. Cassie Wild will also be racing in the same heat as Dawson and aiming for a place in the final.
01:33 AMBUT there is another huge, blockbuster of a race in the pool this morning
BUT there is another huge, blockbuster of a race in the pool this morning
And it's the showdown in the women's 400m freestyle between the USA's Katie Ledecky and Australia's new star Ariarne Titmus.
Ledecky announced herself to the world with gold as a 15-year-old at London 2012. She then took her speed and dominance to another level four years later with four golds and a silver at Rio 2016. But her title is under huge threat from Titmus. The Aussie beat Ledecky in the 2019 world championships - the last time the duo faced off.
It should be fascinating.
01:25 AMObviously the focus of the action in the pool this morning is all on Adam Peaty
Obviously the focus of the action in the pool this morning is all on Adam Peaty
He's bids for gold at 3.12am - is he the most under-rated athlete of all time? I cannot think of anyone in any other discipline who has the 15 fastest times ever...
Should he win he'll be the first British swimmer to ever retain an Olympic gold.
You can follow all the action with my friend and yours Daniel Zeqiri here: Adam Peaty goes for gold in men's 100m breaststroke
01:14 AMMore on that surfing shock
More on that surfing shock
Australia's hopes of a surfing gold medal suffered a crushing blow as world no.5 Stephanie Gilmore crashed out of the women's competition, losing to rank outsider Bianca Buitendag of South Africa in their last 16 heat earlier this morning.
Though the waves were bigger and more powerful than those on offer during Sunday's opening session, choosing which one to ride proved difficult and Gilmore, who posted the best scores on the opening day, came up short in her selections as Buitendag swept to victory.
"That's just the nature of surfing, sometimes the waves are there, sometimes the waves are not," seven-time world champion Gilmore said.
"I looked at that wave and I was like, it doesn't look that good, so I let her have it and she turned it into a seven, so that was the most frustrating thing to me - like, man, I should have just taken that wave," Gilmore, 33, explained.
Few expected Buitendag to have any chance at all against the decorated Australian, but the lack of expectations allowed her to perform at her best as she won by a score of 13.93 to 10.00.
"I had nothing to lose, absolutely no pressure. I am the underdog coming in at 17th seed for this event. I had nothing to lose and it's a really comfortable spot to be in," the beaming 27-year-old said.
01:05 AMGB men's sevens captain Tom Mitchell speaks...
GB men's sevens captain Tom Mitchell speaks...
On making it to the Olympics…
“Absolutely, there’s so much excitement - everyone is playing in their dream tournament.”
On playing after the Covid-inflicted funding cut to rugby sevens…
“For a a GB side at all to be here is great. It gives us hunger, fight and makes us appreciate it more.”
12:51 AMGreat Britain win their sevens opener
Great Britain win their sevens opener
After being made to work hard in the first half Great Britain put their foot on the gas in the second.
Dan Norton, Ross McCann and Robbie Fergusson all crossing the whitewash after the break to earn a 24-0 win.
12:39 AMGreat Britain lead Canada at the break
Great Britain lead Canada at the break
Dan Norton (who else?) scores under the posts just before the hooter. That was a very tight, exhausting half.
GB lead 7-0.
12:36 AMHere's the star of the sevens show so far
Here's the star of the sevens show so far
Rugby sevens has it's own remote-controlled wonder (see post below where I compare it very favourably with the Euro's saloon ball toy...) Here it is in all its glory.
I WANT ONE...*
*any friends and family reading this, yes, that is a huge hint for birthdays and Christmas...
Wait for the ball drop... 😂
A #Tokyo2020 delivery! #bbcolympics— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 26, 2021
12:33 AMFiji's fashionistas
Fiji's fashionistas
The defending champions may not have impressed in their opener, but our very own Ben Coles has already given them the gold medal based on their kit...
Fiji pitching up as favourites and with a 10/10 kit. #Tokyo2020
— Ben Coles (@bencoles_) July 26, 2021
12:24 AMNo opening shock in the sevens
No opening shock in the sevens
Japan led at the break and then opened the scoring in the second half. But the defending champions Fiji fought back to win 24-19. They tend to start slowly but that was a less than ideal opening match for Semi Radradra and Co.
12:16 AMAnything the European Championships can do...
Anything the European Championships can do...
...the rugby sevens event at the Tokyo Olympics can try and do better.
One of the stars of the recent football feast was the remote control car that brought on the match ball before every match. It didn't make the Team of the Tournament but it was on many fans' subs bench.
Well, inspired by football's remote controlled wonder the sevens event in Japan has it's own ball toy...this one actually scores a conversion through the posts on its roof (how good is that?!)
Ladies and gentlemen I ask you to compare and contrast...(for what it's worth, I prefer the Japanese rugby version...)
EUROS CAR
Vs
RUGBY SEVENS CONVERSION-MAKING PEOPLE CARRIER
12:09 AMThe Rugby Sevens is under way
The Rugby Sevens is under way
The first match is between the defending champions, Fiji, and the hosts who are, as you very well know, are Japan.
Fiji are hot favourites and in the first move of the match score a try. Not an ideal start for the Japan side. BUT they score just before the break and go 14-12 ahead.
Have we a shock on our hands?
12:01 AMSurfing shock
Surfing shock
Over in the surfing, seven-time world champion Stephanie Gilmore has been knocked out of the women's competition by South Africa’s Bianca Buitendag in round 3.
Buitendag totalled a top score of 13.93 from her two best waves, almost four points ahead of Australian Gilmore (10.00), to advance to the quarterfinals.
Gilmore is a seven-time world champions and current No.5 and was in fine form on Sunday and was expected to challenge for gold.
11:53 PMKristian Blummenfelt is a happy (and tired) man
11:46 PMJonny Brownlee speaks...
Kristian Blummenfelt is a happy (and tired) man
11:46 PMJonny Brownlee speaks...
Jonny Brownlee speaks...
On his race and finishing fifth…
“It was really tough. I gave everything I had, I couldn’t give anymore and am proud of the race [I ran]. I raced as hard as I could.”
On not getting that elusive gold...
"It wasn't a fairy tale ending, we've got another chance in the mixed team relay."
On Alex Yee…
“He’s an incredible athlete and deserves that medal.”
11:41 PMAlex Yee speaks...
Alex Yee speaks...
Not sure how he can after that huge effort...
On what it feels like to win silver…
“Bit bizarre really. I am just a normal guy. But it shows dreams do come true, it’s amazing. It’s been a tough preparation, I felt I was as prepared as I could have been so I am happy I got the silver.”
On the run in brutal conditions…
“I just had to dig that little bit into my soul and it was enough to get silver, I am over the moon with that.”
11:32 PMThis is what happens when you win triathlon gold
This is what happens when you win triathlon gold
Not surprising the effort required...
*those who don't like the sight of vomit look away now...
Norway’s Kristian Blummenfelt wins the Olympic triathlon and then throws up. Unsurprising given the effort and the heat. pic.twitter.com/BJWcBuDQPU
— Simon Clancy (@SiClancy) July 25, 2021
11:21 PMBrownlee is fifth
Brownlee is fifth
The run was hard but he stuck in there until the last few kms - he may not have added to his bronze and silver but he was still impressive.
11:20 PMYee takes silver!
Yee takes silver!
He was, in theory the best runner, but in those conditions silver is a great return from the south Londoner.
Wilde from New Zealand takes bronze.
11:20 PMBlummenfelt wins!
Blummenfelt wins!
A great last 2km from the Norwegian - so very impressive in that heat and humidity.
11:19 PMIt looks as though Blummenfelt has made the decisive move
It looks as though Blummenfelt has made the decisive move
He's delivered a crushing blow to Yee. Blummenfelt looks a very old 27 year old, and after this impressive effort he'll doubtless look even older but he'll be Olympic champion so who cares!
11:17 PMBlummenfelt now has clear air...
Blummenfelt now has clear air...
...between him and Yee now.
He's grimacing but increasing his lead - this is so impressive. Yee is still in second.
11:16 PMBlummenfelt goes for it now
Blummenfelt goes for it now
Has he gone too early? There's 1.5km to go.
Yee is in second and still looks strong...it's not over yet...
11:15 PMWilde makes his move now
Wilde makes his move now
The Kiwi tries to drop Yee and Blummenfelt but the European duo stick with their gold medal rival.
11:14 PMYee is sitting in third place
Yee is sitting in third place
Blummenfelt is pushing the pace, but there's still over a mile to go.
Who can handle the last two kms of heat?
Blummenfelt dropped Yee in Yokohama earlier this year, but Yee is a better athlete now.
11:13 PMBrownlee has been dropped
Brownlee has been dropped
The gap from him in fourth to the lead trio of Yee, Blummenfelt and Wilde is widening and is now as much six seconds.
There's a lap to go the medals will go to the lead trio, it seems, who will take the gold - can Yee do it?
11:10 PMBlummenfelt the Norwegian...
Blummenfelt the Norwegian...
...lets Yee know he's there - he goes past the Briton and ups the pace. Wilde is third and Browlee is fourth, but 10 metres back to the lead trio.
11:08 PMYee still looks like he's full of running
Yee still looks like he's full of running
With less than five kms to go.
Yee then kicks at the front, Wilde (NZ) goes with him, as does the American McDowell, Brownlee, too, goes with his fellow Briton.
11:06 PMVincent Luis's race is run
Vincent Luis's race is run
The experienced Frenchman is falling back...
11:05 PMHalf of the run is done
Half of the run is done
And Yee still leads, McDowell of the USA is second and Brownlee is still in the lead pack of nine.
11:04 PMI'll say this again...
I'll say this again...
Without any apologies for repeating myself...VERY HOT out there.
11:02 PMYee looks strong
Yee looks strong
He is, and I stress this is only on paper, the strongest runner of that lead group.
11:01 PMLead group includes
Lead group includes
Yee, in the lead, Wilde of New Zealand, Connix of France and Brownlee....
We're down to nine contenders now, the heat is starting to take its toil.
10:58 PMOne lap (of the run) down, three to go
One lap (of the run) down, three to go
And Yee still leads, Brownlee is a couple of seconds back.
Does Yee want to sit in a bide his time as he did when he won in Leeds recently? Vincent Luis is still up there.
10:56 PMLitterbugs can do triathlon
Litterbugs can do triathlon
Littering is usually penalised, apparently in this most arduous of sports BUT not today. It's hot and the runners are taking on water and icebags at every opportunity, easy to understand.
10:53 PMSalvisberg has been caught
Salvisberg has been caught
By none other than Alex Yee who now leads. Brownlee is about five metres and about nine places back.
This part of the run is key, go off too fast and you may not have enough energy for the closing kms.
10:51 PMYee looks strong
Yee looks strong
The fine 10km runner heads the chasing pack after Salvisberg. Brownlee is safely in that bunch.
10:50 PMThe cycle is over
The cycle is over
Salvisberg leads...
Brownlee and Yee are up and running sixth and seventh 16 seconds, behind the Swiss leader.
10:48 PMSalvisberg still leads
Salvisberg still leads
Impressive from the Swiss.
10:47 PMHeat is OK, it's the humidity that's the killer
Heat is OK, it's the humidity that's the killer
At the start it was 67 per cent and now it's close to 80 per cent according to the commentators - ouch, sweaty betty
10:44 PMThe transition will be key
The transition will be key
Yep, that may also be obvious but you can easy incur penalties if you don't execute the transition from the bike to the run cleanly.
10:43 PMThe BBC commentators
The BBC commentators
Are not able to call this 'this can be won by any of 12 athletes' - 'it all depends on the run'. Yep, think that last point is now obvious...
Anyway one lap to go in the cycling, Salvisberg is 20 seconds ahead of that large pack which includes Yee and Brownlee.
10:40 PMBoth Brownlee and Yee
Both Brownlee and Yee
Are keeping quiet in the pack - probably a good decision, unless there's a breakaway then it's wise to save the legs for the 10km run to follow.
10:39 PMCan they do it?
Into the bike leg of this race and @jonny_brownlee and @Lixsanyee are both in the leading group.
Can they push on to compete for the medals?#TeamGB #Tokyo2020 pic.twitter.com/lyDfMqNE8S
— Team GB (@TeamGB) July 25, 2021
10:37 PMSalvisberg has go
Can they do it?
Into the bike leg of this race and @jonny_brownlee and @Lixsanyee are both in the leading group.
— Team GB (@TeamGB) July 25, 2021
Can they push on to compete for the medals?#TeamGB #Tokyo2020 pic.twitter.com/lyDfMqNE8S
10:37 PMSalvisberg has go
Salvisberg has go
The Swiss is not the strongest runner so he's clearly making his bid for glory knowing he doesn't stand much hope in a running race. There are just over 10km to go
10:35 PMThe Brits are in the leading pack after six laps (of eight)
The Brits are in the leading pack after six laps (of eight)
Yee is 14th and Brownlee is 21st - both right in the mix.
10:31 PMHaving banged on about the heat
Having banged on about the heat
It is worth remembering that while it's oppressive for us mere hoi polloi these guys train ready for the high temperatures and humidity. Though, it's clear, they'd probably prefer a slightly more temperate climate...
10:29 PMFive laps down
Five laps down
Zachaus from Luxembourg was as much as 100 metres ahead at one point but his moment of Olympic glory is all but over as he's only now 3secs ahead of the large chasing pack after five laps of eight. Brownlee and Yee are safely in that pack.
10:26 PMIt's hot, hot, hot
It's hot, hot, hot
Yes, I know Tokyo is hot this time of year but the purpose of starting so early (6.30am is way too early to get out of bed, anyone who disagrees with me is wrong...) was to avoid the extreme heat but it seems as though the 10km will be run in high temperatures and humidity.
10:21 PMThe leading pack have been caught
The leading pack have been caught
Which means all the big names are now all together at the end of lap four. Brownlee is 6th and Yee is 12th - both part of the 'conversation'.
It looks like this will come down to the 10km run now - which is good for Yee.
10:18 PMAlex Yee is out to enjoy himself
Alex Yee is out to enjoy himself
Here's want he said before the start.
“I have prepared the best I can, I put want to execute the best race plan I can…I just want to make sure I enjoy it as well. Easy to forget you’re living some of the best moments of your life.”
10:17 PMThe lead group
10:15 PMAfter lap three the chasing pack...
The lead group
10:15 PMAfter lap three the chasing pack...
After lap three the chasing pack...
...is making inroads into the leaders (which includes Brownlee). That's great news for Yee - a very good 10km runner- the Briton is in 18th 13secs down, he was 19secs off the lead group after the end of lap three.
10:13 PMHenri Schoeman is leading the head pack
Henri Schoeman is leading the head pack
The South African took the bronze at Rio five years ago, which was a surprise. But he backed that up with Commonwealth Games in 2018.
10:09 PMYee is the best runner (on paper) in the race
Yee is the best runner (on paper) in the race
He needs the leading pack to come back if he's to make a bid for gold - he's in 13th 19 seconds back after the second lap of eight in the cycling section.
10:06 PMBrownlee is looking good and still in the leading group
Brownlee is looking good and still in the leading group
There are 10 of them in the pack and Brownlee is one of them.
Before the race he had this to say about the chances of him completing his Olympic medal haul, having won bronze and silver so far...
“Only here to win a medal…confidence is back and genuinely think I can win gold.”
10:00 PMThe first lap of the cycling portion is complete
The first lap of the cycling portion is complete
It has taken the leaders just under 26 minutes to complete the swim and the first of eight laps on the bike.
Taylor Reid of New Zealand is in first, Jonny Brownlee is second. Alex Yee is at the front of the chase group, 18 seconds off the front pack.
09:56 PMThe chase pack have caught up with the leaders
The chase pack have caught up with the leaders
There is now a large group at the front after a breakaway had taken place in the swim.
09:52 PMThe leading competitors are out of the water and onto the bike
The leading competitors are out of the water and onto the bike
Vincent Luis of France remains in first place. Jonny Brownlee is in eighth and Alex Yee is 32nd, 30 seconds off the lead.
09:49 PMLots of questions to be asked
Embarrassing false start to the #Tokyo2020 triathlon. Half the athletes not ready, hooter sounds and there’s a boat bang in front of the pontoon blocking half the field!
How on earth was that allowed to happen??
— Jack de Menezes (@JackdeMenezes) July 25, 2021
09:49 PMHere is the video of the bizarre false start
What an extraordinary (false) start to the Olympic triathlon!
The gun went off - but half the athletes had a boat in their way 😬
Fortunately they didn't get too far, and the second start is under way now.
Watch on @bbcone now ➡ https://t.co/Iqw28rGJLW #bbcolympics #Tokyo2020 pic.twitter.com/3p16Yqx8XA
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 25, 2021
09:47 PMThe competitors are out, and back in, to the water
Lots of questions to be asked
Embarrassing false start to the #Tokyo2020 triathlon. Half the athletes not ready, hooter sounds and there’s a boat bang in front of the pontoon blocking half the field!
— Jack de Menezes (@JackdeMenezes) July 25, 2021
How on earth was that allowed to happen??
09:49 PMHere is the video of the bizarre false start
What an extraordinary (false) start to the Olympic triathlon!
The gun went off - but half the athletes had a boat in their way 😬
Fortunately they didn't get too far, and the second start is under way now.
Watch on @bbcone now ➡ https://t.co/Iqw28rGJLW #bbcolympics #Tokyo2020 pic.twitter.com/3p16Yqx8XA
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 25, 2021
09:47 PMThe competitors are out, and back in, to the water
Here is the video of the bizarre false start
What an extraordinary (false) start to the Olympic triathlon!
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 25, 2021
The gun went off - but half the athletes had a boat in their way 😬
Fortunately they didn't get too far, and the second start is under way now.
Watch on @bbcone now ➡ https://t.co/Iqw28rGJLW #bbcolympics #Tokyo2020 pic.twitter.com/3p16Yqx8XA
09:47 PMThe competitors are out, and back in, to the water
The competitors are out, and back in, to the water
Vincent Luis of France is in the lead as they start their second lap of the swim.
09:43 PMThe swim has started at a fast pace
The swim has started at a fast pace
The top swimmers are dragging the rest of the pack on, taking advantage of the still conditions.
09:41 PMJonny Brownlee has started the swim well
Jonny Brownlee has started the swim well
Alex Yee is further back at this early stage, just seven minutes into the event.
09:39 PMThe competitors have reached the first turn
The competitors have reached the first turn
It has taken them just over four minutes. Diego Moya of Chile is currently in the lead.
09:35 PMHere is the bizarre boat incident! It began reversing towards the competitors!
09:34 PMThe triathlon is under way!
Here is the bizarre boat incident! It began reversing towards the competitors!
09:34 PMThe triathlon is under way!
The triathlon is under way!
There is a false start after one of the boats filming was still in the way as the divers went in. That was very dangerous! It nearly reversed into the competitors that had begun swimming.
It now begins with the swim, successfully this time. Team GB's Jonny Brownlee and Alex Yee are both genuine medal contenders.
09:25 PMThe weather is set fair
The weather is set fair
There are dry and hot conditions in Tokyo as we edge closer to the start of the triathlon. Not long to go now.
08:51 PMGood evening, the triathlon starts at 10:30pm BST with Team GB in with a chance of medals
Good evening, the triathlon starts at 10:30pm BST with Team GB in with a chance of medals
Britain's Alistair Brownlee was hot favourite at the last two Olympics and duly delivered gold and his absence from Tokyo means a good half of the field, including his younger brother Jonny, will hit the water on Monday believing they can win.
COVID-19 disruptions and a shortage of races over the last 18 months has made form difficult to establish, and if the Games had gone ahead on schedule last year Frenchman Vincent Luis, world champion in 2019 and 2020, would have been the man to beat.
Having finished 11th in 2012 and seventh in 2016 Luis is an experienced Olympic competitor but with a wave of young talent now knocking at the door that might not be enough.
Luis looks a positive rookie alongside 38-year-old Spaniard Javier Gomez, silver medallist in 2012 and ruled out of Rio after a bike crash, and though he looks a long shot for a medal, it will be an emotional return.
"I wish I was a bit younger to be a bit better, but I still think I have my chances," the five-times world champion said this week. "I’ve done everything in my career, this is just a bonus and I’m going to go for it."
Gomez edged Jonny Brownlee for second place in 2012, with Brownlee adding a silver to his bronze four years later.
Now, finally racing without the shadow of big brother Alistair, Jonny finds himself among the old guard fighting off the next generation.
He got a stark reminder of that in the last ITU race before the Games in Leeds, England, when fellow Briton Alex Yee finally delivered on years of promise with a searing victory that propelled him into real medal contention in Tokyo.
If the 23-year-old Yee can stay in contention on the swim and bike he has the speed -- he was British 10,000m champion on the track in 2018 -- that could rip him through the field.
Reuters