Usain Bolt Makes Comeback by Winning 100m

by thessa on 25. May, 2011 in Featured

Rome, Italy – Today, Usain Bolt, 24, returned to the track to beat his rival, Asafa Powell, and win the 100 meter at the Golden Gala with a time of 9.91 seconds.

This was the first race for World Record-Holder Bolt in nine months. His last race was in August 2010 in Stockholm, where he was defeated by Tyson Gay.

Since then, Bolt had suffered from back problems and issues with his Achilles tendon.

Bolt to the AP:

“I was nervous as it was my first race of the season and I didn’t think it went well and the nerves got to me,” Bolt said. “In fact it was a totally bad race and I’m just pleased I won.”

Powell, who hails from the same country as Bolt – Jamaica – came in second with 9.93 seconds, while Christophe Lemaitre of France came in third place with 10 seconds flat.

Of his 2nd place finish, Powell said:

“I tired toward the end and if I had kept it up I would have been the winner tonight. I think I was too worried by Usain at the end of the race. I always said this was my race to win and I gave it away. I knew I could have won and I needed to stay focused and relaxed. I’m more confident now as I know I could have won.”

Of his victory Bolt said:

“It was not perfect but I’m very happy. It could have been better, but I’m now looking forward to my second race (of the season). The important thing was that I got the win. It’s good for confidence and the season.”

photo:dreamcricket.com