Matt Hutchins found it tough going in the men’s 1500m freestyle heats today.
Hutchins, 21, swam right up to his best, recording 15min 32.60s but that time was good enough only for 38th position among the 45 in qualifying.
The fastest qualifier was Gregorio Patirineri in a lightning 14min 44.52s.
The Canterbury swimmer was pleased he had swum up to his personal best.
“I went out a bit hard and paid for it,” he said.
Hutchins said that overall he was pleased with his performances in Rio.
“I’ve learned so much ... this is so different to any swim meet. I’m already hungry for Tokyo 2020 and this experience is invaluable.”