Xinhua
Beijing, Aug 2 (Xinhua) American diver Laura Wilkinson hopes to repeat her splendid victory of the Sydney Olympics in the Water Cube here and wants a perfect farewell in Beijing. The American diving team had their first training session here Friday.

As an American diving icon, the 30-year-old Wilkinson, winner of the women’s 10m platform at the Sydney Olympics and the 2005 Montreal worlds, caught people’s attention while walking into the venue. She qualified for the women’s 10m platform here after finishing first in the American Diving Trial in June.

This is the third Olympics for the veteran. “It’s my last Olympic Games, I’m excited. The Olympics are always exciting. It doesn’t get old,” said the 10m platform specialist.

“I definitely think I have the potential to win gold,” said the 30-year-old champion.

“Obviously my biggest rival will be the Chinese who are quite strong and consistent. Emily Heymans of Canada and Paola Espinosa of Mexico are hopeful too. Many talented divers will fight for the old.”

Many female divers transferred from platform to springboard when they are getting old, but not Wilkinson. Wilkinson said she has never given it a thought. “I like platform. I like the feeling of fly.”
Xinhua