Great Britain's two-time champion Liam Tancock has admitted that he is relishing "mixing it with the big boys" at the World Championships in Kazan.

The 30-year-old, who is a world-record holder in the 50m backstroke, impressed in the pool this morning by qualifying for the 100m backstroke semi-finals.

The Brit, who witnessed teammate James Guy claim the nation's first medal of the week by winning silver in the 400m freestyle final last night, touched the wall in 53.35 seconds to finish fourth fastest overall in the heats.

"For me, training is always fun but this is where the action is at the big meets mixing it with the big boys - that is what I love," Tancock told SwimVortex.

"It's nice to get a swim under my belt. Cracking night last night from Team GB. I love it - this is what I love."

Tancock will join compatriot Chris Walker-Hebborn in the semi-finals this evening.

Written by
Danielle Joynson