“It’s my first time in South Africa and if the facilities at the hpc are anything to go by, then your country is blessed in abundance. I have found the facilities at hpc to be of world class. You’ll have to look hard and wide to get the same facilities under one roof, as the hpc does not only offer very comfortable lodgings, friendly service and good food. With all the money in the world you cannot buy the warm Pretoria sun in Europe this time of the year.  And if that is not enough reason to be back at the hpc next year, the training facilities (gymnasium, pool) are all within walking distance. That’s my kind of place!”

Alain is training hard to start peaking at the French National Championships in April.

“I first have to do well there before shifting my aim to the European Championships in August in Boedapest where gold in the 50 as well as the100 freestyle will be on my agenda,” added Alain.