MODERN PENTATHLON: Sydney’s Ed Fernon is set to climb the rankings tonight in the final stages of the gruelling modern pentathlon, involving five disciplines at three venues in one day – fencing, swimming, show jumping, shooting and running.
MODERN PENTATHLON: Sydney's Ed Fernon overcame cramps in his hands and legs in the opening three-hour fencing leg to post one of the fastest final run times for a credible 27th in his Olympic debut in the gruelling modern pentathlon today (Saturday).
Fernon, ranked 111th in the world, made up ground in the final combined run-shoot event to improve his position in an event involving five disciplines at three venues over an 11-hour period.
"It was a very enjoyable experience even though it was a long day," Fernon said.
"I started slowly in the fencing; I was cramping in my hands and legs which didn't help.
"There is a lot to be said for just going out and letting it happen. I was really happy with my ride and owe a lot of thanks to Vicky Roycroft who helped me a lot.
" I was really happy with my run too; it was one of the fastest times and Sydney University really helped me there. No one passed me on the run. I ran past about six people but I got passed by a few in the shooting."
The event started at the Copper Box with fencing where each athlete had to compete against every other athlete, with Fernon winning 14 of his 35 bouts to place 29th and earn 736 points.
In the second leg at the Aquatics Centre, Fernon was just outside of his goal time, completing the 200m freestyle pool event in 2:13.10 and drop to 33rd in the field of 36. In this event, the fastest time scores the most points.
In the third event at Greenwich Park, athletes contested a 12-jump course, with a horse chosen from a pool group. Fernon and his horse Chatte van T Welthof were ranked 17th in the riding, bringing is overall place to 29 with two disciplines to go.
Fernon's run/shoot left him in 27th overall, a great achievement for the young athlete who will now look ahead to the next Olympics.
"I am looking forward to having a really good crack at Rio. I only took this sport up five years ago and I learnt a lot today and through my whole Olympic campaign - not just about competition but life skills as well."
Australia’s Chloe Esposito, 20, will contest the women’s modern pentathlon tomorrow, which will determine the last medal of the 2012 Games.
Tracie Edmondson in London
olympics.com.au
