Bolt says start will be key in London
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E-mail Shanghai Daily, May 25, 2012
Usain Bolt is hoping to turn his only weakness into a strength in time for the London Olympics.
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Usain Bolt (C) of Jamaica sprints to win the men's 100 metres event at the Jamaica International Invitational track and field meet in Kingston, May 5, 2012. [Photo/Agencies] |
The tall Jamaican sprinter has never been known for fast starts, so his main focus this season is to become quicker out of the blocks.
Having already smashed the world records in the 100 and 200 meters, Bolt anticipates what will happen if he gets the start just right in London.
"It should be a world record," he said while looking ahead to today's Golden Spike meet in Ostrava, Czech Republic. "We were working on my start. We were reviewing a few things and seeing what we can improve. Over time, my start gets better. I am very happy; my coach is very happy where I am start-wise."
Last year, Bolt failed to defend his world title in the 100 in Daegu, South Korea, after he was disqualified for a false start.
"I know exactly why I false started," he said. "I don't think it will be a factor at the Olympics."
Bolt is the favorite to retain his Olympic gold medals in the 100 and 200, although the Jamaican is expected to face tough competition from countryman Yohan Blake, who won the world title.
Bolt doesn't seem to be bothered.
"As long as I'm in great shape, nobody beats me, for sure," he said. "For me, I'm focused on what I want to do. I know what I need to do to be a champion, so I'm working on it."
Bolt is unlikely to threaten his world record of 9.58 seconds when he runs the 100 meters today. He says he still has time to find his optimal form before London.
"All I have to do is to work on transition and technique," he said. "We have probably two months to get it right, so it shouldn't be a problem. I'm definitely on the right track."
Bolt will be competing in the Czech city for the sixth time.
