INDIANAPOLIS — Former University of Tennessee swimmer Andrew Bree placed third in the 200-meter breaststroke finals Tuesday at the US Nationals.

Earlier in the day, Bree finished in a time of 2 minutes, 13.44 seconds in the preliminaries that qualified him for the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics. During the finals, Bree finished slightly faster in 2:13.15.

“We feel there is a lot more to come,” Bree said. “We finished a good cycle of training in July. Now, we look forward to training for Beijing.”

Bree will represent Ireland in the Olympics in 2008.

“I represented Ireland in 2000 and 2004 (at the Olympics),” Bree said. “The 2008 Olympics will be another stepping stone since JT (UT coach John Trembley) thinks I have potential to advance to the finals in Beijing.”

Trembley accompanied Bree and senior Michael Wolfe who also is competing this week. Bree was more than happy to have his coach and friend by his side as the meet produced ideal swimming conditions.

“JT and the coaching staff have continued to support me through my training,” Bree said. “Since we’ve been here there has been a lot of good energy, and I’ve been able to feed off the pressure. Racing tonight against world-class athletes was a real joy.”

Bree faced world-class competition including other former Olympians such as American Scott Usher and South African Neil Versfeld. First place belonged to world-record holder Brendan Hansen in 2:09.91. Eric Shanteau of Longhorn Aquatics followed in second-place (2:10.65).

Bree received the third-place medal with orange pride.

“I was proud to stand and receive my medal as I wore the Tennessee orange,” Bree said. “Since we are in Indianapolis, I can only imagine that there are quite a few other UT fans in the area.”

The 200 butterfly was supposed to be Wolfe’s weak event this week. However, it was good enough to qualify for the U.S. Olympic Time Trials.

Wolfe swam a lifetime best 2:03.93.

“I’m very pleased with Michael,” Trembley said. “That was his sixth-best event and he still has many more in which to compete.”

Bree, Trembley and the Vols hope two Olympic qualifiers — Bree and senior Octavio Alesi (Venezuela) — and one U.S. Olympic trials qualifier will provide positive feedback for the swimming and diving program.

“This week will hopefully help the (Tennessee) Swimming Department attract recognition nationally for our hard work,” Bree said.

Bree continues competition Wednesday in the 100 freestyle relay and Friday sees the former Vol look for another Olympic qualification in the 100 breaststroke.

© 2007, Knoxville News Sentinel Co.