KARACHI: Pakistan’s 100-metre (m) sprinter Liaqat Ali has adopted a simple, step-by-step plan to succeed at the London Olympics, aiming to clock under 10.4 seconds in order to move into the second round.
Ali will be partnered by 800-m runner Rabia Ashiq after both earned wild-card entries for Pakistan.
“My aim is simple — clock under 10.4 seconds in my heat,” Ali told The Express Tribune. “If I can achieve that, not only will it be a national record but also help me progress into the next round which will be a huge achievement for Pakistan.” The 100-m specialist took part in Hong Kong’s Asian Grand Prix but an unimpressive 10.7s left the athlete seeking drastic improvement. Ali followed up the show with a 10.65 in the national championship, renewing his hopes for the London Olympics.
“I fell ill because of hot weather and was on medications in Hong Kong. Our heats used to start at 2.30pm which made it harder to perform. But I’m confident of doing well in London since the race will be held in the evening and the cooler conditions will help me put in that extra effort. A world class running track will also add to my speed.”
He added that he is putting in more effort ahead of the Olympics, which features four rounds, with departmental trainer Maqsood Ahmed. “Everybody wants to win the event but I’m looking at it on a round-to-round basis. The heat will be contested by my idols Tyson Gay and Usain Bolt. To compete alongside the legends will be amazing.”
Published in The Express Tribune, June 6th, 2012.
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Cmon by rick the world I hope you can do that when u have run 10.7
Best of luck buddy. Put in all your efforts to enlighten the name of Pakistan in London Olympics. The nation is with you. Make us proud.
good luck!!!