Aussie Opens Slot for Thorpe

Australian distance swimmer Craig Stevens stepped off the blocks, moving aside for his friend and teammate Ian Thorpe to compete in the 400-meter freestyle at the Summer Olympics in Athens.

Although the decision had been expected, Stevens made his announcement on Australian national television Monday night.

Apparently, altruism wasn’t Stevens’ only motive. Several media outlets reported that Stevens had received payment for his television interview and promises of other benefits.

Thorpe started the controversial episode when he lost his balance on the starting blocks and tumbled into the pool at the Australian Olympic trials in Sydney in March. The false start led to his disqualification in what had been his signature race. Thorpe is the world-record holder and defending Olympic champion in the 400 meters.

The pressure immediately shifted to the little-known Stevens, who finished second behind Grant Hackett in the 400 trial. Stevens also qualified in the 1,500 meters and in the 800 freestyle relay. While the argument raged as to whether Stevens should give up his 400 berth, Thorpe said little. He and Stevens will be appearing at the Janet Evans Invitational in Long Beach, June 10-13.

Stevens admitted on the telecast that the controversy had taken its toll, that he had found it necessary to take sleeping pills. But, he added, the decision “has come from my heart.”

“This would have to be the toughest moment of my life, whether to swim at an Olympic Games or to look after one of your best mates. There was a lot of stress, there were a lot of assumptions made without me even saying anything, which was very upsetting.”

The next word is expected from Thorpe. He is scheduled to make his own announcement, presumably to accept the spot in the 400, today in Australia.