A Bicester man has described competing in the Paris 2024 Olympics as "a great honour".
Kieran Bird, 24, who lives in Bicester, and competed in the men's 400m swimming on Friday (July 26) and competed in the men’s freestyle relay yesterday afternoon (Tuesday, July 30).
Team GB qualified for Tuesday nights 4×200 metres freestyle relay final after winning the heat, which Kieran helped support, and he placed fifth in the men’s 400m freestyle on Friday.
Arriving in Paris on Thursday (July 25) afternoon, his mum, Mandy Bird, is there with other family members supporting him.
Speaking to the Oxford Mail on Friday, she said: "We’re super proud parents, we’re very excited for tomorrow, feeling a bit nervous, it’s lovely to be here."
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Mandy said they were not able to watch him compete in Tokyo three years ago.
She said: "It’s lovely that we’re here this time."
They have also decorated the outside of their house to show their support in the community.
Speaking on the relay win yesterday, BBC Sport commentator Mark Thomas said: "That was exceptional [from Jack McMillan and Kieran Bird].
"All the pressure was [on] them.
"They had a job to do, and there’s a pressure that comes with that job."
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Speaking to the Oxford Mail, Mandy Bird said: "To watch Kieran and the entire Team GB swim team this week has been an absolute pleasure.
"It has been nerve racking, but so much fun.
"It has been fantastic watching Kieran after missing out on Tokyo and we are super proud of him.
"The Bicester community have been great, we have had so many lovely messages of support, that has meant so much - thank you Bicester.
"We have also had some friends come out to Paris with us, which has been amazing.
Kieran spoke to the Oxford Mail about his experience at the Olympics this year.
He said: "I've really enjoyed it, it's been a great experience going to my second Olympic games.
"Being part of the relay team is good fun and a great honour, representing my country is always an honour and then representing them in a relay team, playing my part to help the boys later on, I'm really happy to do it.
"I'm excited for the final tonight and for the rest of the week."
Kieran trains at the Bath Performance Centre and previously trained with grassroots club Bicester Blue Fins.
The Paris 2024 Olympics started on Wednesday, July 24 and will continue until Sunday, August 11.
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