Thursday, July 13, 2006

by Gary Smith
Caribbean Net News LAUSANNE, Switzerland Correspondent
Email: gary@caribbeannetnews.com

LAUSANNE, Switzerland: Jamaican Sherone Simpson, the current world leader at both the 100m and 200m this season, has said training with fellow countryman Asafa Powell, one of two men holding the 100-metre world record of 9.77 seconds, has had a great impact in her career.

Simpson, who holds the world leading performances for 100m, at a sizzling 10.82, achieved at the Jamaica National Championships and a scorching 22.00 for the half-lap, achieved at the same meeting, said as a youth her motivation came from former Jamaican sprint queen and world-renowned sprinter, Merlene Ottey, who now competes for Slovenia, but now she admires Powell.

"Merlene Ottey was my first heroine but now I admire my training partner Asafa Powell," Simpson said during a press conference for the Athletissima Super Grand Prix in Lausanne, Switzerland, on Monday. "I am privileged to train with Asafa."

Simpson also believes that with the current form she's displaying this season, it wouldn't be a surprise if she dips below the 22 seconds mark in the 200m, but prefers the 100m, as it's a whole dash shorter.

"This summer I can dip under 22 seconds but I prefer the 100 metres because the distance is shorter!'' the Commonwealth Games champion said with a smile on her face.

The 21-year-old, who has two of the four sub-11 seconds 100m clockings this season, is hoping to maintain the same form thoughout the season, as well as working on her weak areas so as to not make some the mistakes she's made in a few of her races this campaign.

"When I saw 10.82 on the scoreboard at the Jamaican Championships I was a bit surprised. I hope to maintain this form until the end of the season."

Speaking in terms of the final metres of her race the Jamaican said: "I hope to improve this section of the race."

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