Crompton sets new personal best as he wins first European individual medal

Oliver Crompton set a new personal best as he won his first individual European medal in a dramatic 3m Springboard final in Russia.

The 18-year-old was in second spot at the European Junior Diving Championships after completing his five dives – but preliminary round winner Rusian Ternovoi was still to complete his set.

However, the Russian failed with his last attempt at the Aquatics Palace, in Kazan, and scored zero points to finish in ninth place – and ensure Crompton’s spot on the podium.

It was an impressive performance from Crompton, who had qualified for the final in fourth position.

His penultimate dive – a forward three-and-a-half somersaults in pike position – was his best and of the competition and scored 69.75, which moved him into the bronze medal position

That was followed by 66.30 points for his last dive, a forward two-and-a-half somersaults with two twists in pike position, which took him second.

However, he could not have predicted the drama that would follow to ensure he finished with a silver medal around his neck.

Russia’s Grigory Ivanov was the gold medallist after finishing on 541.15, 12.60 ahead of Crompton.

France’s Jules Bouyer was third on 514.70.

Proud mum moment

Crompton’s proud mum, Lisa, was watching the drama unfold while volunteering at the Swim England National Age Group Championships in Sheffield.

She said: “He’s won silver!

“He came fourth in the 1m on Wednesday, just missing out by five points, so I’m just so happy that he’s done it.

“I’m extremely proud – I could not be prouder. It’s a proud mum moment – and dad as well!

“Oliver has worked so hard and even sacrificed not having his birthday the week before he flew out to Russia.

“He turned 18 on 10 June so he put his party on hold until he gets back. He can party in style now and let his hair down. He’s worked hard and he sacrificed celebrating.

“I watched it live, although I am supposed to be recording [at the National Age Group Championships] as well.

“They’ve been really good letting me watch it.”

Fellow Brit Cameron Gammage was 10th with a total of 472.05.

Crompton’s success was Great Britain’s 10th medal of the Championships and they sit second behind Russia in the medal table with two days of the competition remaining.