[courtesy of TimesOfIndia.com]

United States' gold medalist Ryan Lochte prepares to compete in the men's 200-meter freestyle swimming heat at the Aquatics Centre in the Olympic Park during the 2012 Summer Olympics. (AP Photo)

LONDON: Ryan Lochte will target his second gold medal on Day three of the Olympics on Monday as America’s swimmers attempt to bounce back from the shock of losing their 4×100 relay crown.

Lochte, who got his Games campaign off to a flier on Saturday when he crushed compatriot and long-time rival Michael Phelps to win the 400m medley, suffered a reality check on Sunday in the United States’ relay loss to France.

The 27-year-old will line up in the 200m freestyle final against China’s Sun Yang, who will also be targeting his second gold of the Games after his win in the 400m freestyle on Saturday.

Lochte has the opportunity to avenge the USA’s relay defeat when he lines up against Yannick Agnel, the Frenchman who reeled him in over the last leg.

Phelps, meanwhile, will attempt to get his individual campaign back on track following his chastening loss in the 400m medley final when he begins the defence of his 200m butterfly crown.

The four swimming medals are among a total of 12 up for grabs across all competitions on Monday.

Host nation Great Britain, still awaiting their first gold of the Games, will be hoping diving star Tom Daley can challenge for honours in the 10m synchronised platform final where he competes with partner Peter Waterfield.

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