Olympic hopeful Thorpe seventh on comeback
04/11/2011
Former Olympic swimming champion Ian Thorpe finished seventh on his return to competitive action as he seeks to make the cut for next year's games in London.
Those hoping to see the man nicknamed Thorpedo while enjoying Olympic corporate hospitality will hope the Australian can improve on his showing in the 100 metres individual medley at the World Cup event in Singapore.
The 29-year-old has been away from competition for five years, which may have dulled his edge, although more races may help him regain some of his old qualities.
If Thorpe does roll back the years, he may offer fans some exciting match-ups as he takes on the likes of Michael Phelps, who won a record eight golds in the Beijing Olympics.
However, the man who won five golds spread over the 2000 and 2004 games has himself been playing down his prospects of standing on top of the podium in London next year.
It will not be just about Thorpe or Phelps at the games, however, with 34 different medal events in the swimming.
By Keith Prowse
