The 33-year-old has been out of competitive action since 2006 in which time he has gained a Masters in applied health services research at University of Prince Edward Island, as well as focussing on his family life.

But the lure of competing for gold at the Parapan American Games in Toronto has tempted him back into competitive action, a journey which begins at next week's event in Pasadena, California.

''The return to high performance athletics is a real lifestyle change,'' said Purdy, who now works at home in London, Ontario for a Danish company that provides a web-based hosting platform for sporting events including the Canada Games, for which he worked as a schedule coordinator for on the Organising Committee.

''It's more than hitting the pool and going to the gym.

"You have to eat well, sleep well, it's mental game and you have to on the ball.

"The family is supportive and I'm in a very good position right now.

''The big attraction was the potential to compete at the Parapan Am Games in Toronto next year and have my kids see me swim at those Games.''

Purdy first represented Canada in 1994 and appeared at four World Championships, as well as three Paralympic Games at Atlanta 1996, Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004.

It was at Sydney where he had his biggest success, winning gold medals in the 100 metrew backstroke, breaking the world record in the process, and in the 4x100m medley relay.

As well as the chance to compete on home soil next year in Toronto, Purdy revealed that he has unfinished business and is targeting a potential swansong in Rio de Janeiro.

Purdy won two gold medals for Canada at the 2000 Paralympic Games in Sydney
©Getty Images



''I hope I can help out the team with my performances as well as with my experience,'' said Purdy, who is set to compete in the S6 50m butterfly and 100m backstroke events in Pasadena.

''For me, the whole thing is about having fun and having respect performing for your country.

"I think a mix of youth and veterans helps build a strong team dynamics.

''I didn't wrap up my career the way I wanted.

"I still feel there's something I need to achieve.''

The Pan Pacific Para-Swimming Championships at the Rose Bowl Aquatics Center are due to take place from August 6 to 10.

Athletes from Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, Chile, Chinese Taipei, Ecuador, India, Japan, Mexico, Namibia, New Zealand, Russia, Singapore, South Africa, Trinidad and Tobago and the United States are set to take part.

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