Olympic swimming champion Pieter van den Hoogenband has decided not to participate in the 200m free style race at the upcoming Olympics in Bejing, the Telegraaf reported on Sunday.

Van den Hoogenband (30) told the paper he wants to be able to concentrate fully on the 100m free style event. His ambition is to be the first swimmer ever to win three consecutive Olympic gold medals in the 100m free style.
The swimmer from Eindhoven said he had made his decision ‘with an aching heart’, but said he does not think there is enough time after the 200m race to recover for the 100m event.
‘Everything has to be put aside if I want to achieve my ultimate dream’, Van den Hoogenband said.