Double dose of triathlon to get Tim Don in 2012 groove

Don suffered food poisoning during the event and was forced to quit after continual sickness sapped him of his strength.

Now the former world champion is counting on two races in the capital - this weekend's Mazda London Triathlon in the Docklands and the Dextro World Championship round in Hyde Park in a fortnight - to help him get back on track for another Olympic challenge in 2012.

The 31-year-old Londoner, just returned from high altitude training in St Moritz, said: "Probably every race I do, I'm trying to make up for Beijing.

"But I can take positives from that event. I was in great shape. I know that and, hopefully, in these next two races in London and on to the World Championship Final on the Gold Coast in September, I can show that I am still one of the best athletes in the world."

Already, however, Don is looking further ahead to 2012. He said: "I was at the Sydney Olympics and the home advantage the Australians got was absolutely amazing.

"Everyone says there is going to be extra pressure in London because the Games are going on in my own backyard. But I believe it is going to be the opposite.

"I think the country is going to get behind the British athletes and instead of putting extra pressure on them by insisting, 'You've got to win,' they're going to be willing us on with everything they've got."

Don will be 34 by 2012, and he will be into his 16th year as a professional triathlete. His daunting weekly training schedule comprises of running for 100kilometres, cycling for 400km and swimming for 30km.

He said: "For sure, there are times when it is hard to get up at 5.30 in the morning to go swimming. But then I ask myself, 'Do I want to sit in an office somewhere, nine to five, for the rest of my life?'

"It sounds corny but most athletes, whether they are a David Beckham or a Tim Don, are living the dream. From a little kid I've always wanted to be compete in the Olympics, and to have the Games in my own backyard really is a dream."

Among the record 14,500 entries in the London Triathlon is Formula One world championship leader Jenson Button, who is competing on behalf of the Make A Wish Foundation.

Don said: "I can understand why Jenson finds triathlon training is ideal for motor racing. Triathlon is about all-round fitness. It helps your upper body, your lower body, your cardiovascular system and your strength. If Jenson needs to be an all-round fit guy, there is no better way of achieving it.

"And since Jenson's having a go at my sport, I wonder if he'd let me have a go at his."

Button said: "I've met lots of kids who are supported by the charity at our tests and races. Hopefully, we can raise enough money to grant as many of their wishes as possible.

"I have been taking part in triathlons over the past couple of years. This year I'm aiming to finish in the top 10 per cent.

Don and Button will go in Sunday's elite races around the ExCel Arena. Corporate and shorter distance races take place tomorrow.