kk1,
My interpretation of these words from Bolt is one of further confirmation that he seems to be following a S2L program - and/or that he is saying he hasn’t yet done much SSE (special speed endurance) at longer distances (150m+).
My thoughts as well. Completely agree with you but that isn’t what Bolt said. OK, he meant it but he did not say it correctly. All three of them (Gay, Powell, Bolt) need further education in public speaking. This may seem a harsh comment but in today’s day and age and while you are representing your sponsors and getting paid hundreds of thousand of dollars, and when you decide to speak out or answer question…you need to answer them in correct and educated manner. If one can not do that then answers are to be short and limited the rest is their manager’s duty. Otherwise they do come across as … well you know…
Take a look at Federer, Woods, Thorpe etc. (not Beckham) these guys are articulate and they present themselves as true champions and role models.
I know not everyone is educated to the same extent but one can work on it and improve. One can also surround himself with those who can help and take further guidance from them. A short course in public speaking isn’t something that can not be accomplished in a relatively short period.
Personally, I felt saddened when I have heard a group of teenagers after the OG last year talking about Asafa’s interview with the BBC guy right after he ran the final. They made very valid comments on Asafa’s ahgh, hmmm, yeah, yeah oh hmmm my legs hmmm could not get my legs…
What I am trying to say here is this, (and yes I am disappointed) it comes down to coaching. Their coaches should point this out to them as they are also their mentors and guides. But then again, Mills’ interviews were rather as raw and as unpolished as Bolt’s. The same can be said for S. Francis. I have attended his seminars, and saw some interviews…hmmm. Don’t know about Gay’s coaches.
IMO, this is a serious issue that needs to be addressed. It is not good for our sport if the best athletes emit this type of image to the global audience.
(If I have offended anyone with this commentary I do apologise. That wasn’t my intention.)
P.S. Just watched the footage of the race in Paris. Bolt is a great showman, and I love watching him. He cracked me up with his “flying”. I just wish PUMA picks up on these issues and gets him “a makeover” ASAP. (Powell, Gay too).