Goodwill Games

02/10/2001

Ian Thorpe Makes Goodwill Pledge

Triple Olympic gold medallist Ian Thorpe has announced he will compete in the 2001 Goodwill Games Brisbane, the biggest international multi-sport event this year.

Ian sealed his commitment to participate in the Goodwill Games with a swim among his co-stars - the Sea World seals from the hugely popular series of Adidas commercials that debuted during the Olympic swimming trials.

2001 is shaping up to be a big year for Ian, whose intensive training schedule will see him in top shape for the World Championships in July and the 2001 Goodwill Games from August 29 -September 9.

Speaking at the Sea World media conference, Ian said he was looking forward to swimming in the Goodwill Games and tapping into the energy that a home country audience can create.

"It's fantastic to be part of the 2001 Goodwill Games and help spread the message about this great event," he said.

"I think it's an honour to be involved in the Goodwill Games in Australia and great to see so many sports coming together for the biggest multi-sport event in the world in 2001.

"Following the World Championships, it will be a huge challenge to back up for the Goodwill Games and it will be a test to see which athletes have the stamina."

2001 Goodwill Games Brisbane Chief Executive Campbell Rose said he was delighted to have one of Australia's brightest sporting stars on board.

"By announcing his involvement in the Games, Ian has thrown down the challenge to other world-class swimmers to come to Brisbane and prove their supremacy in the pool," he said.

"His participation will ensure spectacular viewing for our audiences, not only those pool-side, but also the millions of viewers in Australia and throughout the world."

The selection for the Australian swimming team for the Goodwill Games will take place following the World Championships in Japan in July.

The 2001 Goodwill Games is the biggest international multi-sport event on the international calendar and will be broadcast in more than 100 countries across the world.

The 12 day event, from 29 August to 9 September, will see more than 1300 of the world's best athletes compete in 14 sports.

Media information:
Janet England, 2001 Goodwill Games Brisbane
Ph: 07 3233 2088 (direct) / Mobile: 0412 334 937
E-mail: janet.england@2001gwgbrisbane.com.au

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