A total of nine women were brave enough to dive from the 20m platform on Saturday May 9. Although the start of the competition was tight, the third round defined the medals.
Winner of the FINA High Diving World Cup for the second time, Rachelle Simpson (USA) said: “Cozumel is absolutely beautiful and it is one of my favorite locations as the weather and the water offer perfect conditions for diving. I just can't stop looking out of the window every morning. This was my first time here but I want to come back for sure. People are really nice and the group of women’s high divers is growing so much. I am so proud to be part of this elite group.
For the FINA World Championships in Kazan, I have to be constant with my hard work and training on a daily basis. I have yet to improve so many things and get my dives perfect. A lot of work in perspective but I think that I have enough time to prepare. I will be ready for Kazan!”
Photo: Christian Palma
Second on the podium Anna Bader from Germany said: “This is what I call a perfect day. I feel so happy because I have been able to dive from a 20m platform again and I love being with all these girls too. Cozumel is great and I love seeing so many people supporting and cheering us. The spectators give us so much energy that we want to do our best to thank them all to be here.
Kazan is my objective number one and I will definitely fight for the title. I still need to improve my technique and maybe present new dives but I want to be there so I have to work a lot.”
Yana Nestsiarava of Belarus, bronze medallits in Cozumel declared:I tried to have the same concentration than during practice. I told myself that nothing was different and that mistakes could happen. I am delighted with my third place, very happy about today’s results. Cozumel is such a beautiful place, the sea is awesome. I would like to come back all the time.
Regarding Kazan, I am thinking to present new dives hence why I am training hard. I am planning and practicing in time to get there in a strong position. I am so excited to attend the Worlds this summer!”
Photo: Christian Palma
The final of the men’s event of the second FINA High Diving World Cup FINA 2015 is scheduled on Sunday May 10 to determine the 2015 edition overall champion.