We first saw the potential Cullen Jones brought to the table back in 2006, when he won the NCAA title in the 50 free as a member of the N.C. State Wolfpack before bursting onto the long course scene by winning the 50 at Pan Pacs. Since then, Jones has won four Olympic medals, proving the be both a great individual and relay swimmer. After a couple “down years” in 2010 and 2011, swim enthusiasts everywhere got another glimpse last summer of what he is capable of when he puts it all together. Jones left London with three medals (one gold, two silver), including a near-victory in the men’s 50 free.
Like we’ve seen many Olympians do, Cullen used part of the 2012-2013 season to take a break and pursue opportunities outside of the pool. For Cullen–a marketable personality and leading spokesman for the very important “Make a Splash” campaign–that’s more than just sleeping in, not working out, and being lazy for a change.
Don’t let his 2013 fool you. When big things are on the line, we’ve seen what Cullen can do. He has made it very clear he’s here for the long haul, spending the next twelve months gearing up for U.S. Nationals in August 2014, with a goal of qualifying for the 2013 Pan Pac and 2014 World Championship teams.
Too many champions in all sports stay too long and don’t go out on a high note. Remember the KO of Larry Holmes by Mike Tyson when Larry shouldn’t have been in the ring anymore? The 50 is not the same thing, I know, and as long as he has good endorsements & enough money, then go for it.
I hope that he can sort it all out, cut back on the liming and having fun and get in some serious consistent training and swimming. Cullen has some serious work to do if he hopes to make it to World Champs and to Rio when he will be over 30 years old by that time. However he has the talent to be able to do it. Glad to hear that he is focused on his game plan.
I hope Cullen can get back to his best form for the 100 freestyle as well. A 4×100 with a strong Adrian, Feigen, Ervin, and Jones can take the USA back to the top.