Peirsol moves closer to another gold medal

BEIJING, China — Newport Harbor High product Aaron Peirsol began his quest for a second gold medal at the Beijing Olympics Wednesday by winning his preliminary heat and qualifying second for today’s semifinals of the 200-meter backstroke.

Peirsol, who defended his 100 backstroke title by breaking his own world record earlier, won the fifth preliminary heat in 1 minute, 56.35 seconds Wednesday.

Peirsol, also the defending Olympic champion in the 200 backstroke, saw his qualifying time bested only by American teammate Ryan Lochte, who posted a time of 1:56.29.

Peirsol’s semifinal heat is scheduled today, with the final set for tonight.

A four-time gold medalist, Peirsol will also be attempting to win yet another gold medal as a member of the medley relay team.