The Gleaner, Kingston JA
Clarke preparing for ‘right moment’
Published: Monday | January 3, 2011 0
October 7, 2010. - AP
André Lowe, Senior Staff Reporter
For a nation used to seeing sub-10 sprinters, Lerone Clarke’s 10.12 seconds gold medal run in the 100m at last year’s Commonwealth Games in Delhi, India, was just another regular time.
But for the 29-year-old, this represented a turning point in his life, a life-changing moment, according to the former William Knibb student.
Clarke, who besides his triumph in Delhi, has also been nominated for the Sportsman of the Year award, enjoyed what was easily his most successful year as a professional.
“I can truly say that my life has changed since then, especially when it comes to my Jamaican supporters who never knew much about me before this (last) season,” Clarke told The Gleaner from his Missouri base in the United States.
“The 2010 season for me was quite successful from the very start. I ran quite consistently throughout the year at both indoor and outdoor competitions,” he said.
“I was able to compete against some great athletes from Jamaica and other countries alike, and was fairly successful in making a name for myself, even before the Commonwealth Games victory, which by far is my greatest achievement so far,” Clarke added.
Now training at his alma mater, Lincoln University, under the guidance of Jamaican-born coach, Victor Thomas, Clarke is targeting even greater things in the coming months with the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) World Championships clearly on his radar.
Clarke informed that he has been doing a lot of work in the gym to get stronger and increase his endurance level.
“Training is going quite well at the moment as I’m doing a lot of strength and endurance work. I have a lot of hard work ahead so I’m focusing on staying healthy and God’s willing, I’ll be ready at the right moment in 2011,” said Clarke.
“I’m just hoping for another successful track season in 2011,” Clarke said. "I hope to be a contender and not just to make up numbers for Jamaica’s 2011 World Champs team.
“Being ready at the right time will be what makes the difference come this summer and I’m working hard and hoping to do well.”
He was also full of praise for his coach.
“I have a great coach, Victor Thomas, who works very well with me and keeps me motivated for success in all aspects of my life,” Clarke noted.