HOLLYWOOD, California, July 14. IN one of the most high-profile locales in the United States, Australia’s Ian Thorpe has settled into the hidden residence he found during his house-hunting tour of Southern California. Training with Dave Salo, Thorpe recently purchased a $1.17 million home in the Hollywood Hills. The home is so secluded that it requires a key-operated lift in order to gain access.
Thorpe purchased the home in May and is working with Salo as he prepares for a return to international competition. In recent months, glandular fever and a broken hand have prevented Thorpe from racing. He hasn’t competed on a major stage since the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens where he won gold in the 200 and 400 freestyle events.
When Thorpe returns to competition remains uncertain, but he is expected to swim at the Australian World Championship Trials in December. The World Champs are slated for Melbourne next March. Thorpe will not return to his homeland for next month’s Aussie Short Course Champs, opting instead to continue training with Salo.