France Wins Its First Gold Since 1970 in European Swimming Championships

Stefan Caron of France won the men’s 100-meter freestyle at the European Swimming and Diving Championships Thursday, the first gold medal for France in this event since 1970.

Meanwhile, East Germany continued to dominate, winning four of six events and finishing second in two.

Caron, 18, won in 50.20 seconds, beating 1980 world and Olympic champion Joerg Woithe of East Germany, who finished in 50.38.

The day’s program began with Thomas Knuths of East Germany narrowly winning the men’s platform diving event with 581.46 points. Runner-up was Albin Killat of West Germany with 579.63.

The three women’s events were won by East Germans. Defending champion Astrid Strauss took the 400-meter freestyle in 4:09.22, and Birte Weigand won the 100-meter backstroke in 1:02.16, a world best time this year. The East German 400 freestyle relay team also won in 3:44.48.