The Rio Olympics are approaching, and ONN, one of the flagship clubs of French swimming, is tightening its ranks for this event: after winning 9 medals for 4 of its athletes in London, the appetite is still there, even though everyone is aware that the Olympics come and go, but are never the same!
However, a new generation is ready to take over, seize their chance to participate (which is already a success), and possibly step onto the podium.
With his usual composure, Patrice Pellerin is confident: “our swimmers have all the qualities to secure their Olympic ticket. The selection will take place at the French Championships in Montpellier next April. It’s up to them to do what’s necessary not to miss this opportunity.”
He concluded: “For our club, having two or three members in the Olympic selection would be a great success.”
Who are the candidates? Charlotte Bonnet, the most decorated, bronze medalist at the London Olympics, Anna Santamans, Olympic semi-finalist, Marie Wattel, French champion, and new talents Cloé Hache and Alizée Morel, who participated in this summer’s Universiade.
From individual to team sports, although the European exploits of water polo are now part of history, this discipline still maintains its status.
Third in the last French Championship, the men’s team, led by Samuel Nardon, aims for the final four every year. After that, they face tough challenges against the super-favorites from the Cercle des Nageurs de Marseille.
There is no shortage of international talent here as well, and if the French team secures its ticket to Rio during the qualifiers, the number of club representatives at the Olympics would significantly increase.
For the women, the self-relegation to N1 and winning the French championship title in that category, with promotion to Pro A, has allowed the team to rebuild and start anew with players from their training program.
Georges Intzes will therefore have a quality squad with 4 internationals and two Greek nationals.
Managed with the wisdom of the experienced and a youthful spirit by the duo of Jean Monnot (president) and Richard Papazian (general manager, celebrating his 20th year at the club), ONN is not just about high-level activity, quite the opposite.
With over 2,000 members, including 760 children who attend the Water Schools, and 5 disciplines (adding synchronized swimming, diving, and triathlon to swimming and water polo), Olympic Nice Natation is built on the deep foundations of Nice culture, with a passion and ambition that remain intact.
