Jackson aims for Olympic finals

Joanne Jackson won a bronze in the 400m freestyle at the World Short Course championships in April

Richmond swimmer Joanne Jackson is preparing for her second Olympic Games knowing she will have to be on top form to reach the finals.

The 21-year-old will compete in the 400m freestyle and as part of the 4x200m freestyle relay team.

Jackson told the BBC: "You're going to have to do personal bests in the heats to make the finals.

"There are so many people that could make the final so the heat to me is going to be like a final.

If I can produce another personal best then I should be able to make the final Joanne Jackson

"I'm just going to have to go in there and swim my best time to make it.

"I've produced personal bests over the past few months in the 200 and 400 freestyle.

"If I can produce another personal best then I should be able to make the final."

Jackson swam for Great Britain in Athens in 2004 but did not get beyond the heats.

She did however win silver medals in both her individual event and the relay at the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne in 2006 and is keen to repeat that success.

"I can remember everything about the Commonwealth Games. It was so much fun and I'm just hoping I can repeat the performance."