JAMES Magnussen has opted to compete in the Pan Pacific Championships despite suffering what he described as a "pretty dodgy" back.
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Not only is he competing but he is looking forward to going up against one of the greatest swimmers of all times.
"There is the chance I could race Michael (Phelps) in the 100m freestyle and certainly in the 4 x 100m freestyle relay. Whilst Adrian (Nathan) and Feigan (Jimmy) are certainly my biggest competitors in the 100m free any opportunity to race the greatest swimmer in the history of the sport in Michael is an exciting one. It is great to have him back in our sport."
He told the Port News earlier this week he was focused on the job ahead.
"On my short term radar is the Pan Pacs and then I always like to sit down with my coach and my support team and really look to set some fresh goals for the future," he said.
"The challenge of racing the best swimmers in the world keeps me focused and motivated every day."
The Missile said the lower back complaint was "improving day by day" and said it was the result of a hectic schedule.
"2014 has been quite a gruelling year in terms of my training and racing and I had a very busy racing program at the Commonwealth Games," he said.
"It is fair to say that at the conclusion of the Games my back was quite sore and showing some signs of wear and tear from a long year.
"I have a great team of medical people around me and we have worked very hard to be in as good a shape as is possible for Pan Pacs and I will be doing my best for the Australian Swim team and myself."
The meet kicked off yesterday and will conclude on Sunday.
Magnussen will be in action today with heats for the 100 metre freestyle kicking off at 10am with the finals at 7pm tonight.
Finals for the 4x100 metre freestyle relay will take place from 7pm Saturday. If he is to contest the 50 metre event both the heats and finals will be on Sunday.