FED: James Tomkins may not be ready to give up on Olympic dream

AAP General News (Australia)
08-26-2008
FED: James Tomkins may not be ready to give up on Olympic dream

SYDNEY, Aug 26 AAP - Maybe it was the excitement of the rock star welcome home, but
six-time Olympian James Tomkins has again indicated he's not quite ready to give up on
his Olympic career.

Taking part in the official welcome home address to the athletes at Sydney airport
today, the rowing legend signalled he may have another shot at Olympic glory at the London
2012 Games.

"For those Olympians who are finishing up with these games congratulations and good
luck with whatever path you take in future," he said.

"For those of us who may be going on to London, start preparing and as (Australian
Olympic Committee boss) John (Coates) said and the prime minister (Kevin Rudd), I think
it's only appropriate we spoil the party over in London."

Following his brief speech, Tomkins was asked by the Nine Network to clarify his intentions.

"I haven't made my mind up at all but I was talking with (teammate) Drew (Ginn) just
a couple of nights ago and we were saying, 'Well, if it is possible, then why wouldn't
you?

"Like I said, to get a welcome like this, to be a part of a fantastic team ... it really
is addictive and I would love to do it again, if possible."

Tomkins, an original member of the Oarsome Foursome, has won three gold medals at his
six Olympics.

He missed out on a fourth in Beijing, which was expected to be his last Games.

After his last race Tomkins had said retirement was likely.

"I'd love to have another crack, but I don't think it's feasible," he said.

"It's just hard to leave it here."

Today he said he was proud to have been the Australian flag-bearer at the opening ceremony
in Beijing.

"Before the opening ceremony, I said I was immensely proud to be leading the team and
to have all of Australia behind the team," Tomkins said.

"And to come back here and realise the enormity of the achievement of the team - it's
absolutely phenomenal."

AAP vpm/nf/ht/cjh/bwl

KEYWORD: OLY08 TOMKINS

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