Jones eyeing London 2012
03/04/2010 07:19:17 PM
Triple Olympic champion Leisel Jones will become the first Australian swimmer to compete in four Olympics after she announced her intention to race in London in 2012.
The 24-year-old breaststroke specialist, who has won eight Olympic medals, made it clear after Beijing she would not take part in the 2009 World Championships in Rome and she instead focused on her beauty therapy studies.
Jones continued to train and competed with some success on the World Cup circuit at the end of the year and has now confirmed she will be in London in two years time.
"I have made the decision to go ahead and not (have) one foot in and one foot out the door," she said.
"Why not do it? I can prove my longevity in the sport. I can be the first (Australian) swimmer to do four Olympics and that would be a great achievement."
"I am still mentally prepared for everything and focused and still enjoying my swimming."
During Jones' absence, the likes of Rebecca Soni and Annamay Pierse jostled for domination.
However, rather than be daunted, the seven-time world champion is confident she can again be No.1.
"I consider myself to be the fastest and I would love the opportunity to race against the guys coming up this year," she added.