Erlangen (Germany), July 30: Hannah Stockbauer -- Germany's most successful athlete at last week's World Swimming Championships in Barcelona, arrives back home. Stockbauer was celebrated as a hero on Tuesday (July 29) at her home pool after snatching three gold medals in the middle- and long-distance events in Barcelona. The 21-year-old student said she was amazed at the reception that she did not expect.
Hundreds of children and adults came to the reception and many were rewarded with their hero's autographed photo. Stockbauer has achieved such popularity in Erlangen, that there has even been an application to the city council to change the name of the pool where she trains. It is currently called the "Roethelheimbad", and the proposal is to change the name to "Hannah Stockbauer Sports Pool."
Stockbauer, who won in the 400-, 800- and 1500-metre freestyle events in Barcelona said she will be taking two weeks off before concentrating on training for the 2004 Olympics in Athens. She is again expected to compete in and win those three events.

"I hope I stay healthy and I am optimistic for Athens next year," she added.

Bureau Report