Swallow became world long-course triathlon champion in 2009

Long-course triathlon world champion Jodie Swallow has decided to relocate to Switzerland as part of her bid to win gold at the 2012 London Olympics.

The 28-year-old from Brentwood has finished second and fourth in two international events so far this year.

She told BBC Essex: "With two years to go, this is my home Olympics and the time to go for it full guns blazing.

"There's not really another London triathlete going to the Olympics in 2012. I'm that girl, I need to do it."

Swallow, who suffered an injury troubled 2009, added that the decision to base her training in Switzerland was part of a whole new approach to her career.

It's difficult without funding - it's not a massively high-profile sport Jodie Swallow

"I've never done this before. I've never committed myself 100% in terms of my outside life," she said.

"I've always been quite a separated athlete - I live my life then I live my triathlon as well."

As a result of last season's injury troubles, Swallow is currently suffering from a shortfall in funding, but was adamant it would not distract from her ultimate goal of competing in front of her home crowd.

"It's kind of living on the breadline at the moment, but as I get more consistent and as I get better results I hope that will hopefully fade away," she said.

"It's difficult without funding. It's not a massively high-profile sport.

"We're not multi-millionaires like footballers, but we work very hard and I've just got to keep the faith and just keep on going."

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