From left, Usain Bolt, his coach Glen Mills and agent Norman Peart attend a press conference on June 2 at The Courtleigh hotel to celebrate Bolt's world record. Peart believes Bolt is in great condition to compete in the sprint double in Beijing. - LeVaughn Flynn
BEIJING, China (CMC)
Norman Peart, Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt's agent, has backed the decision made by his coach Glen Mills to allow the sprinter to chase the sprint double at the 29th Olympiad.
Peart, a mentor to Bolt since his high school career, said the 100 metres world-record holder had matured significantly over the last few months and was well placed to join the elite group of athletes who have won the 100 metres and 200 metres crowns.
"Since breaking the 100 metres world record, Bolt considered himself in a very good position to do both," Peart told CMC Sports in an interview.
"After the world record [in New York] his performances in both events have been very good and very motivating."
Winning the double at any major championships has been rare, and completing the feat at an Olympic Games is one of the most coveted accomplishments in track and field.
Only a few who have managed to achieve this, with American legend Carl Lewis being the last sprinter to do so 24 years ago in Los Angeles.
Overwhelming favourite
Based on current form, Bolt is the overwhelming favourite for both events but will have the likes of countryman and former world-record holder Asafa Powell and American world champion Tyson Gay, to fend off.
Peart said he was optimistic about Bolt's chances.
"Bolt thinks that this Olympics is his to shine. The Olympic Games come every four years and he might not have the same success then as he hopes to have in this one," he stressed.
The 21-year-old Bolt opens his Olympic campaign on August 15 with the first round of the 100 metres dash.
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