Raben Dommann (North Vancouver) struck gold in the Pan Am Pool in Winnipeg as the 2017 Canada Summer Games swimming competition got underway on Monday afternoon.
Dommann won the men's 800-metre freestyle race in a time 8:26.84, eight second ahead of the silver medallist from Saskatchewan. Sehajvir Singh (New Westminster) was sixth.
Also in the pool in the first session on Monday, Sophie Grace Lorette (Victoria) placed fourth in the women's 1500m freestyle. Zoe Froh (Burnaby) was seventh.
Quotes
Dommann, Raben (North Vancouver) - Gold medal in men's 800m freestyle swimming
On winning the first gold medal for BC's swim team at the Canada Games
"It was a solid race. I went out hard. That's what I planned to do. I would have liked to be a little faster. But getting medals for BC that's what really counts here. I am happy. My goal was to be on the top of the podium, I wanted to win 800 freestyle. I don't race it very often."
On being at the Canada Games
"It's a great experience, just being part of the team and getting medals, the team feels great."
On his future races at the Canada Games this week.
"My 1500 is a better race for me. Anything long distance freestyle is good for me."