Japan's Kitajima eyes 2012 London Olympics

Published January 08, 2015

TOKYO (Reuters) - Japan's multi Olympic gold medalist Kosuke Kitajima has signaled his intent to swim at the 2012 London Olympics, describing the Games as his "last target," local media reported Tuesday.

However, he returned to competition late last year, ending a 15-month hiatus.

"To take on the challenge of the Olympics again, I need to gradually improve my condition," Asia's most decorated swimmer told Japanese media after a race in Long Beach, California.

"That (competing in London) will probably be my final target."

Kitajima added: "I want to race at the Olympics again if possible. The Winter Olympics are being held in Vancouver this year and that will give me more motivation."

Kitajima moved to Los Angeles in April to train under U.S. Olympics coach Dave Salo.

(Reporting by Yoko Nishikawa; Editing by David Dolan and Alastair Himmer)

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