VDH's first comment on Thorpe's retirement

As VDH and 'Thorpedo' were each other's arch rivals - only in the water though, on land they are good friends - the Dutch press desperately wanted a quote from Pieter van den Hoogenband on Ian Thorpe's early retirement.

VDH: "It will be very strange not having that 'black fish' swimming in the lane next to mine..."

Of course VDH gave Thorpe this nickname, due to the fact that Ian always swam in this all black swimming suit.

Check back for more comments from Pieter's coach Jacco Verhaeren and his take on Ian's retirement.

We will sure miss those exciting clashes in the water between 'The Flying Dutchman' and 'Thorpedo'!