http://sportsbbq.com/2006/11/21/thorpey-calls-it-quits/ an Aussie's view on all things sport Wed, 03 Dec 2008 23:22:39 +0000 http://sportsbbq.com/2006/11/21/thorpey-calls-it-quits/#comment-2339 Scott Wed, 22 Nov 2006 19:46:13 +0000 http://sportsbbq.com/2006/11/21/thorpey-calls-it-quits/#comment-2339 It was better he retire now while at his peak than after Beijing in 2008 when he may not have lived up to his very high standards. Its a shame that his personal life, in particular his sexuality, has been talked about in the media - it is irrelevant and was likely a factor in his retirement. Like other early retirees such as Shane Gould (retireed when she was 16 after winning 3 gold medals in the 72 Olympics), he will always be remembered dominating the pool. Does Australia have enough young talent to fill his shoes? The Australian women will probably be better than ever in 2008, but we will struggle in the mens in both short course and distance events. It was better he retire now while at his peak than after Beijing in 2008 when he may not have lived up to his very high standards. Its a shame that his personal life, in particular his sexuality, has been talked about in the media - it is irrelevant and was likely a factor in his retirement. Like other early retirees such as Shane Gould (retireed when she was 16 after winning 3 gold medals in the 72 Olympics), he will always be remembered dominating the pool.
Does Australia have enough young talent to fill his shoes? The Australian women will probably be better than ever in 2008, but we will struggle in the mens in both short course and distance events.

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