AFTER missing out on the World Championships and the World University Games, the island’s top swimmer has got his sights firmly set on London 2012.

Ian Powell (pictured) suffered the heartbreak of failing to qualify for both the World Championships, which began in Italy yesterday, and the University version earlier this month.

For the last six years, the Sarnian, who is the third ranked 200m butterfly swimmer in Britain, has been based in the US.

He has one more year left at Florida State University and when he leaves next May, he is going to train full time with top British swimming club Stockport Metro.

The aim is to make the 2012 Olympic Games in London.

‘I’m going to stay there for two years, preparing for the Olympics,’ said Powell.  ‘It’s a dream, but I’m in with a shout. I’m going to give myself the best preparation.  I’ve got to get into the top two [in Britain] to get to the Olympics. I believe in myself that I can do it.

‘I’m going to be working hard, but there will be no school and no distractions.’