It’s probably my last chance, admits Powell

Former 100m record holder wants to improve on previous bests.

LONDON:

Jamaica’s former 100m world record holder Asafa Powell conceded that the London Games probably represents his last chance of erasing previous disappointments in two Olympic finals.

The 29-year-old, who held the 100m record for almost three years from June 2005 to May 2008, has seen his status as the fastest man in the world eclipsed by his younger rival and close friend Usain Bolt. Powell, whose one individual title the 2006 Commonwealth Games is poor reward for his obvious talent, said the 100m in London was probably the final time where he could count himself among genuine title contenders.

“This is an important Games for me,” said Powell. “This is probably my last one and I am going to give it my all. The 100m is my event because the 200m doesn’t love me very much and the feeling is mutual. I have learnt from Usain to stay more relaxed. I’ve learnt from him that you are doing it for yourself and no one else. It’s easier for me now. The final is a one man race in that you just solely focus on your lane and you don’t look around you and size up the opponents.”

Powell, who has twice taken bronze in the world 100m final but on two other occasions missed the championships with groin trouble, admitted the Olympic 100m promises to be one of the most competitive in Games history.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 28^th, 2012.