The 14^th edition of the swimming Euro-Meet in the Coque sports center in Kirchberg begins this Friday with a very high-profile competitor on show. The organisers have managed to convince Australian swimming legend Ian Thorpe to take part in selected races. The five-time Olympic gold medalist and 11-time world champion is in Kirchberg to further improve his form. After Thorpe retired from the sport in 2006, the 29-year old last year announced his come-back, with the main aim being the qualification for this summer's London's Olympics. The final qualification tournament for Australia's swimmers takes place in mid-March.

Less glamourous but as interesting is the quest by Luxembourg's top two swimmers to qualify for London during this weekend's Euro-Meet in the Coque. Talented youngsters Raphael Stachiotti and Laurent Carnol both want to book their place for this summer's Olympics, which would be their second participation after Beijing 2008. Whereas 19 year-old Stachiotti is focusing on the 200 and 400m combined-style races, Laurent Carnol will try and get his golden ticket in the 100 and 200m breast stroke races.