The days of
American dominance are over. That is not a bad thing. It simply reflects the
globalization of sport. Other countries are developing sport systems. They are
training coaches and athletes. We will always be in the hunt just by size of our
population. I have not carried out my complete Olympic boycott as I had intended.
I have watched selected events, mainly to learn more about the sport demands
and current trends. I will give my two cents on Usain Bolt. I was unimpressed with
his behavior in the 100 meters. I think it showed immaturity and a lack of
respect for the sport and his competitors. That being said I am not sure he
meant any disrespect, he is just kid out there having fun, perhaps there is a
lesson we could learn. It is still a game. The other thing to remember about
Bolt is that he is no flash in the pan. He was a great when he was 15 years
old, much like Michael Phelps in swimming. His 9.92 in the heats of the 100
meters was the most amazing run I have ever seen, he sprinted 30 meters and
then literally jogged the 70 meters, astounding! He also dispels the myth that
someone tall cannot start effectively. I thought the greatest sprinter I have
seen in my life was Tommy Smith, he was tall, 6”3” but not a good starter so he
seldom ran 100 meters. However, in those days it was not accepted to strength
train beyond a few push-up or pull-ups, I think that Bolt has developed his
strength levels to enable him to start effectively. I have not seen his 200
meter final race yet, but what a time. I can’t wait to see him in the sprint
relay, imagine what he will do with a running start. I hope his teammate can catch
him to pass him the baton. It is also interesting to note the success of the Caribbean
nations in Track & Field, it is not just Jamaica. I think that coaching
development has been a key, they have taken advantage of IAAF coaching
development and done a good job developing their youth. Certainly coaching is
my bias, but it proves to be a key.
It was cool
watching the men’s springboard diving and catching a dive of one of the young divers I
had worked with in Guadalajara. Also neat to see one of the Aussie women divers
that I had gotten to see train last year in the hunt.
