Reprinted from Caribbean Net News
caribbeannetnews.com

Powell seeking 100m competition in wake of Gatlin doping affair
08-05-2006

KINGSTON, Jamaica (AFP): World 100m record-holder Asafa Powell was left lamenting a lack of potential rivals in the wake of American Justin Gatlin's revelation that he was embroiled in a doping affair.

"It's kind of disappointing right now," Powell conceded, although he declined to comment specificially on Gatlin's announcement that he had been told he had tested positive for testosterone or other steroids at the Kansas Relays in April.

Gatlin's competitive fate now rests with US anti-doping authorities. If found guilty of this offence, he could face a life ban as a second-time offender.

Gatlin could also be stripped of his share of the 100m world record, which he gained when he matched Powell's mark of 9.77sec in Doha in May.

With their expected rivalry on hold, Powell was clamouring for some real competition in the 100m.

"I really need some real good competition," said Powell, who ran 9.77 seconds on June 11 in Gateshead, England, to equal the world record he set on June 14, 2005.

Powell said Gatlin's woes wouldn't affect his own motiviation to lower the world mark.

"...I will still be motivated because somewhere along the line, you will find someone who is going to step up to the challenge," he told a Jamaican radio station.

And according to Powell, the Commonwealth Games 100m champion, "I would really appreciate that."

Powell, who has already posted eight sub-10sec times this season, was asked if he can run below 9.77 this year.

"Yes, man. Yeah, man ... there is no doubt about that.

"A lot of races I kind of surprised myself because I felt very sore and I still ran 9.8s.

"I have been holding back ever since, so I haven't gotten the chance to put out my all yet.

"As soon as I get everything straight and go back on the track, I'll try it (to run below 9.77)," he vowed.