By David Gold

Keri-Anne_PayneMay 8 - Keri-Anne Payne clinched victory at the LEN Open Water Cup in Eilat as she swam to glory in her first 10 kilometres race of the season.


The Beijing silver medallist led from the front after a fast start as she dictated the pace to secure a place in July's World Championships, which are due to be held in Shanghai.

Payne, who was the 2009 10km world champion, finished in 1 hour 52min 12sec, with Tom Allen of Swansea the fastest British athlete in the men's race in tenth place.

Other British athletes competing were Cassandra Patten, who came 10th in the women's race to clinch her spot in Shanghai, and Dan Fogg, who came 18th in the men's contest.

Mark Perry, British Swimming Open Water Performance Manager, commented: "I am pleased with the performances that we saw today. Keri-Anne had an impressive swim throughout the race.

"It was good to see her go out, attack the race and come out with an impressive victory.

"Tom Allen showed his potential throughout the race and I look forward to seeing what he will do in Shanghai.

"We have our four athletes now qualified for the World Championships where it will prove to be a very competitive race, but I think our athletes will be ready for the challenge."

The World Championships in Shanghai will be a London 2012 qualifying contest for open water swimmers, who must finish in the top 10 to meet the qualification criteria.

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