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Ian Thorpe has today announced he will be making a comeback to competitive swimming in a press conference just held.
The champion Olympian will be swimming in the 100m and 200m freestyle, with a priority on the 100m. He made repeated mentions that he will be competing in relay events for the Australian team.
Thorpe will be putting his reputation on the line as one of Australia’s greatest swimmers and Olympians in this comeback.
Ian Thorpe registered with the International Drug Testing Agency WADA this morning in one of the final hurdles for his comeback.
Thorpe will resume training on the 24th of Februrary in Abu Dhabi with sponsorship with Virgin Blue.
A heavily tanned Thorpe commented on funny rumours he heard, including taking up a career with Virgin as a captain.
Thorpe’s decision was to return as an elite athlete at the pinnacle of the sport.
He decided to train for three days without quitting, followed by three weeks, followed by three months as he attempted to reduce the pressure on himself.
Sponsor Virgin Blue CEO John Borghetti made a massive gaffe when introducing Thorpe, encouraging him to “win many gold medals for Qantas”.
Thorpe also made reference to subterfuge attempts to avoid being found out early, including being coached by SMS, and not going to the same training pool more than once.
He also told his close advisors and friends to lie to anyone who asked.
Thorpe also dismissed rumours of his return in a quest for riches, and said mentioned the support of his Mum and family.
Bookmakers are offering odds of around $7 for Thorpe to win a gold medal in London.