Robbie Renwick was the star for Scotland on day two of the Commonwealth Games, clinching gold in the pool in the men’s 200m freestyle.

Having endured a difficult opening day in the 400m, Renwick bounced back in style to clinch the gold with a winning difference of just 2/100ths of a second – eluding Kenrick Monk of Australia.

Monday’s 400m bronze medallist David Carry pushed his fellow Scot all the way, leading at one, but faded in the final length, finishing eighth.

Renwick, on the other hand, bided his time. He was languishing in 7th at quarter-distance, up to sixth at half-distance and still back in fifth with one length of the pool remaining.

It was a big ask for him to transform fifth into gold, yet Renwick powered over the final fifty metres to close the gap and claim victory, with his celebrations leaving no one in any doubt as to what this success meant to the Glasgow-based swimmer.

“It feels fantastic to be Scotland's first gold medallist of the Games,” said Renwick. 

“It’s such a proud moment for me. We’re going to be hosting the Games in four years’ time in Glasgow, and I just know it’s going to be great. Scotland’s such a proud nation and I’m really happy to do that for Scotland.

“I’m pleased that I bounced back after yesterday’s disappointing performance in the 400,” Renwick continued. 

“I knew I was a 200 swimmer rather than a 400 swimmer, but to win the gold medal and be Commonwealth champion is just fantastic. I know I’ve got a lot more in me as well.

“I definitely knew I was down during the race,” he continued, “but I just stayed calm and hoped for the best. That’s what all my training’s geared towards. 

“I’m Commonwealth champion now,” Renwick added, “and I want to enjoy the moment.”