Chinese men's relay team handed Athens berth
(Xinhua)
Updated: 2004-07-11 09:29

The Chinese men's 4x100m freestyle relay team have been handed a surprise berth at the Athens Olympics following Britain's withdrawal.

"We had almost no hope.

"However, we were informed that because the British team gave up their chance in the relay, we could take advantage of their exit," China Swimming Association vice president Shang Xiutang said.

Rules set by international swimming federation FINA limit the number of teams in each Olympic relay competition to 16.

Before the surprise announcement, China's men's 4x100m team were ranked outside the top 16 and stuck on the waiting list.

The General Admission of Sport is due to issue the full roster for China's team on July 13.

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