Swimming: Thorpe taking year off

Australian swimming star Ian Thorpe is taking a year off.

Thorpe has pulled out of this year's world championships in Montreal, as well as other major meets.

He has decided to take a full year off, in an attempt to peak for Beijing Olympics in 2008.

Coach Tracey Menzies said it is disappointing for the Australian team not to have Thorpe around this year, but he needs a break before Beijing.

Australian national coach Alan Thompson said it leaves a big hole for this year's world champs.

But he said some of their younger swimmers now have a chance to impress.

He said someone like Grant Hackett will now lead the Australian team.

Ian Thorpe's next major assignment will now be the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne next year.

- NEWSTALK ZB