Powell ‘on the double watch’ at trials
Published on: 25th June, 2009…132 views
Powell ‘on the double watch’ at trials
KINGSTON, Jamaica Former world 100-metre record holder, Asafa Powell, says he will “have to be on the double watch” and expect no favours at this weekend’s Jamaican National Championships.
With the likes of Olympic triple gold medalist Usain Bolt, Yohan Blake, the national junior record holder, Marvin Anderson, Michael Frater and Steve Mullings eager to wear the national colours in Berlin later this summer, Powell said he will have come out ready to compete
“There are a lot of guys out there to put pressure on me and Usain, so I just have to look (out),” said Powell in an interview after his final training session on Wednesday morning at the National Stadium east complex.
"Michael always comes with surprise at the trials, and Steve Mullings is running well, so I just have to be on the double watch, he added.
With Bolt favoured to run away with the men’s 100m, following his 9.77second wind-aided showing earlier this month, all eyes are firmly positioned on Powell.
In spite of this, however, the Olympic relay gold medallist said he is under no pressure, even though he is not 100 per cent fit.
“I am not under any pressure," the former national champion said. "For the past five years I have been injured at the trials and still able to make the team, so I don’t see why this year is different”.
"I’m just going out there to qualify,” he explained.
Powell added that he does not intend to have a showdown with Bolt, who holds world records, 9.69 (100m) and 19.30 (200m).
“I’m not in any rivalry … I mean Usain (Bolt) is in good shape (while) I’m just coming back from injury so I’m just going out there to qualify for the World Champs,” he said.
“…just trying to get myself ready for the World Champs because I know I can be on top there," said Powell.