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A Winning Return: Powell victorious in 2007 debut at Belgrade

Posted May 30th, 2007 at 8:21 PM by Jessica Galvano

Section: News & Results, Track & Field

Struggling with knee tendonitis, 100m world hecord holder Asafa Powell was apprehensive about his upcoming race at the Artur Takac Memorial in Belgrade, Serbia. Tuesday night, however, Powell laid his fears to rest. After running a current world-leading time of 9.97, Powell was understandably satisfied with his return to competition.

Despite an evenly matched start, the Jamaican sprinter asserted his experience and renowned speed mid-race; distancing himself from the field, Powell powered to a 9.97 finish—the lone sub-10 time of the night. With second-place finisher Churandy Martina at 10.11 and a third-place tie for Frater and Lewis-Francis in 10.19, Powell’s impressive run established his contending presence for the 100m in the 2007 season.

With a solid performance in Belgrade behind him, Powell’s confidence seems to have returned. He emphasized the particular significance of his winning finish, explaining that as his first competition since his dispiriting knee injury, a strong race portends future successes. Tuesday night’s results, with which Powell and his coach could not be more pleased, not only suggest that Powell is healthy, but also that this year can expect the consistently stunning performances and fast times that have come to identify the Jamaican powerhouse.

Already a world name in the 100m, the outcome of a much-anticipated 200m in the Prefontaine Classic on June 10th could prove Powell to be a multi-event threat. The competition, including 2004 gold medalists Shawn Crawford (200m) and Jeremy Wariner (400m) in addition to reputed American 200m runners Xavier Carter and Wallace Spearman, promises an exciting finish. Though Powell admits the decision to enter the 200m was ultimately made by his coach, Stephen Francis, he is convinced that he can put up a strong time against a tough field.

While still partial to the 100m, the sprinter’s rigorous training schedule has him prepared for almost anything; jokingly telling interviewers that even the 400m is not out of the question, Powell’s casual assuredness is certainly not without merit. First to set the now-tied record time of 9.77 in the 100m, 2006 World Athlete of the Year, and 26-time sub-10 second finisher, Powell has more than upheld his worldwide reputation as a distinguished sprinter.

Powell’s Belgrade first bodes well for his upcoming races. A current world-leading time makes the Jamaican a likely challenger for victory in the World Championships in Osaka this summer. With a recovered knee and sights no doubt set on a new world record, Asafa Powell is the man to watch—and, to beat.

Research sources and for more information: [IAAF], [Pre Classic - Start Lists]