Phelps deflects talk of record gold medal haul

(BEIJING, August 6) -- Swimming superstar Michael Phelps (USA) has deflected talk of his potential record gold medal haul at the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games.

Phelps is the only person who can win eight gold medals at the Games and to get there he will need to beat Mark Spitz's (USA) record of seven at Munich in 1972.

"I haven't said anything about breaking records," he said at a press conference at the Main Press Center on Wednesday. "I'm just preparing myself the best I can, to compete the best I can.

"My goals haven't been published. Bob (Bowman, USA coach) is the only one that knows it."

By 'preparing himself' he means an early night and bit of television. Phelps will watch the Opening Ceremony from the Athletes' Village on Friday night.

"I haven't gone the last two times and I don't plan on going because I have to compete the next day. I'm hoping to catch some of it before I go to bed. It's definitely going to be one of a kind, something we've never seen before."

Phelps was quick to praise the Athletes' Village.

"Year after year, the technology gets better and better. The facilities are the best I've ever competed in, Olympics wise. It has the nicest dorms, better than the last two Olympics."

Phelps is famously a private person but known for his close relationship with teammate Katie Hoff (USA). She says it is almost as though they are brother and sister.

"Michael and I have said we have a sibling connection. Some days we fight, some days we support each other. Four years ago he was great to have around and give me advice. The support system will continue," she said.