Lining Up to Replace Thorpe

By John Lohn

CRANBURY, New Jersey, November 22. NOW that Ian Thorpe has announced his retirement from the sport, there is no more debating whether the Australian sensation will be able to regain his past form and return to the top perch in the world in the 200 freestyle. So, let's take a look at the contenders for that No. 1 slot in the post-Thorpe world.

Pieter van den Hoogenband: The Dutch star holds the distinction of being a Thorpe slayer during his career, so that automatically gives Hoogie top billing. The Olympic champion at the Sydney Games in 2000, van den Hoogenband is the only man other than Thorpe to dip under 1:45.

Michael Phelps: A bronze medalist in the 200 free in Athens, behind Thorpe and van den Hoogenband, Phelps has shown he's capable of becoming the top-rated performer in the four-lap freestyle. Being the American-record holder and reigning world champ provides that credibility.

Grant Hackett: Sure, this is a race that is a bit short for Hackett, the world-record holder in the 800 and 1,500 freestyles and Thorpe's heir apparent in the 400 free. But, the Aussie has shown his worth in the 200 distance over the years and should remain among the world's elite in the event.

Klete Keller: Training with Phelps under Bob Bowman with Club Wolverine, Keller is chasing a third Olympic invitation and held off Thorpe in Athens while guiding the United States to gold in the 800 freestyle relay. There's no doubt that Keller is a top-five performer who is still getting faster.

Simon Burnett: The British standout didn't have the showing that was expected from him at last summer's European Championships, but Burnett is a gifted athlete with range from the 50 through the 200. Look for continued noise from the University of Arizona product.

Filippo Magnini: He might be the best 100 freestyler in the world right now, but it's important to not overlook the Italian's worth in the 200 free. He has some time to drop to be with the Big Boys, a manageable task.

Ryk Neethling: The South African is a talent in the 100 and 200 disciplines and the veteran has shown enough over the years to be worthy of mention in this discussion.

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