Kosuke Kitajima Headed to United States

By Hideki Mochizuki, Swimming World Japanese Correspondent

TOKYO, Japan, March 1. KOSUKE Kitajima revealed today that he plans to live in the United States to study English. The news came during a speech he gave to elementary and junior high school students.

While he has not detailed when and where he plans to move, he hopes that it will be soon. He also has not made a decision on his future in swimming just yet either.

"I am not prepared, so I am not planning to race now," Kitajima said. "But, since I have taken so much time off, I am feeling more and more like making a comeback.

"I made the decision to move to the U.S. last year, and I am looking forward to finding a new opportunity for me," Kitajima said. "It will not be about focusing on swimming. I don't have a coach, and I am not planning to be involved in a local team right now."

Kitajima renewed his contract with suit manufacturer Mizuno with an extension from Jan. 1, 2009 to Dec. 31, 2010. His contract with Mizuno began in 2004.

Name*

Email*

Welcome to our community. We invite you to join our discussion. Our community guidelines are simple: be respectful and constructive, keep on topic, and support your fellow commenters. Commenting signifies that you agree to our Terms of Use