Filip Nowacki: Jersey swimmer wins island’s first medal at Commonwealth Games since 1990

Swimmer Filip Nowacki has received Jersey’s first Commonwealth Games medal in 36 years after taking silver within the 100m breaststroke.

The 18-year-old, who’s the world junior 100m and 200m breaststroke champion, completed second behind Australia’s Sam Williamson by 0.17 seconds with world record-holder Adam Ramsay-Peaty 0.31 seconds behind him in third.

Nowacki was fourth going into the flip at 50m however put in an outstanding second 50m leg to overhaul Ramsay-Peaty and the early chief South Africa’s Michael Houlie.

“I’m really happy with that swim,” Nowacki advised BBC Jersey.

“It was just a touch outside my personal best, but it’s a true privilege racing Adam, the Aussies and the very best in the world in a senior environment.”

The teenager has extra possibilities for medals later within the week as he goals to grow to be probably the most adorned Jersey athlete on the Commonwealth Games – the best stage islanders can compete at below their very own flag.

He will race in opposition to mentor and world record-holder Ramsay-Peaty within the 50m breaststroke which begins on Sunday.

Nowacki’s greatest likelihood of profitable gold seems to be within the 200m breaststroke which begins on Tuesday – he’s the reigning British champion and is the quickest qualifier for the occasion.

“It gives me confidence going forwards,” he added.

“But it’s not given that my 200’s going to be great, so it’s just about focusing in on the 200 now and the 50 tomorrow.

“I like getting my hand on the wall and prime three bringing again some silverware and I’m very proud of that.”