Thaindian News

Daegu (South Korea), Aug 22 (IANS/CMC) Olympic and World sprint king Usain Bolt says all he needs is a decent start, and he would achieve his ultimate goal of defending his titles so he can become “a legend”.

The Jamaican has been weak out of the blocks in his most recent races this season, but he predicts a good start is essential for him to again win the men’s 100 and 200 metres.

“If I get a good start…it won’t be a problem for me,” said a confident Bolt on his arrival. “I think I will win with ease.”

“When I get into my running stride I don’t think anybody can match it, no matter my shape.”

He added: “I am trying to defend my titles - that is my aim. I want to show the World that I may be coming back from injuries, but I am still the best. I am a confident young man and I want to do well.”

Bolt, who celebrated his 25th birthday Saturday, is looking to become the first runner to complete the 100-200 double in successive World Championships.

He is still on the comeback trail, following season-ending back and Achilles’ tendon injuries last year.

Bolt best time for the season has been 9.88 seconds - the seventh fastest for the year overall - and he is well aware that others, like compatriot Asafa Powell - the year’s fastest man with a time of 9.78 secs - are waiting in the wings.

“I want to be a legend,” he said. “People have said I am a legend already because I have done so well in Beijing and Berlin.

“But personally, I think I need to defend my titles. So that is what I want to do. I want to show the World that I am the best, and then break more records and do great things.”

Bolt said he did not feel he was in the kind of shape that would allow him to break his own World records over both distances - so retaining his titles would be sufficient for him.

“I am working hard to stay focused and to get it right,” he said. “I try not to put too much pressure on myself.

“Mentally, I am always a strong person. I am always focused and I am always ready. I didn’t get as much (live action) as I wanted early in the season to really get back on top. But I am still the greatest.”

He said: “People will be looking for me to break records, but the truth is I am not in that shape.

“If everything goes well next season, and I am injury-free, and I work as hard as I am supposed to work, I should be able to break my records.”

The World Championships open this coming Saturday, and qualifying heats for the 100 begin on the opening day.

–IANS/CMC
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