Normal service is resumed

WHAT'S it like to live in the shadow of Atlanta '96s most successful competitor, so far? While Michelle Smith has been scooping the jackpot, Ireland's other swimmers have had the unenviable job of focusing on their own performances.

Yesterday, 18-year-old Adrian O'Connor made his Olympic debut, competing in the 100 metres backstroke; while Marion Madine, competing in the 100 metres butterfly, effectively performed her Olympic swan song.

It was a day of reality. In Smith, Ireland possesses a world class swimmer. But she is in a different league. The rest, however, can gain inspiration. And O'Connor was philosophical after finishing seventh in his 100 metres backstroke heat in 58.56

seconds, a second outside his best, to take 41st place out of the 50 entries.

"Michelle's victories have boosted us," said O'Connor. "If anything, her performances haven't put any greater pressure on us. I feel her wins have given us the impetus to swim faster."

Making your Olympic debut in a pool which has already garnered two gold medals for Ireland, however, is just a little intimidating. Tomorrow, O'Connor is back in the pool again, this time in his favourite event the 200 metres backstroke. He'll be hoping for better.

"I lost my direction a little bit and hit the ropes but it was okay for a first swim. You can't expect to beat your personal best every time you get into the pool. Hopefully, I will do better in the 200 metres," said O'Connor.

Madine endured a horrid time in her 100 metres butterfly heat, finishing last in one minute 3.80 seconds, trailing in well behind winner Natalya Zolotukhina of Ukraine.