LONDON – World and Olympic 400-metre champion Kirani James says one of his goals is to help stop talented young athletes in Grenada from falling out of grace with the sport.
The country’s most successful athlete said he had witnessed far too many young athletes in his homeland more talented than him fall by the wayside.
Addressing a news conference in London after comfortably winning the 400 metres to secure Grenada’s first Olympic medal, James said he wanted his success to inspire the country’s youth.
“I have seen a lot more guys a lot more talented than me but they didn’t have the determination and confidence to move forward,” he said.
“So one of my jobs is to not let that happen again in my country – to keep on inspiring the kids to be whatever they want to be: the best that they can be.”
The 19-year-old surged to victory on Monday in 43.94 seconds to capture the first Olympic gold medal for Grenada.
The Olympic title is the latest addition to his collection of major meet victories, which include triumphs at the world senior, junior and youth levels.
“There was one guy who was faster than me, but he fell along the way,” said James. “It’s sad to see now because he was way more talented than me.”
James, who first dominated regional meets, including CARIFTA Games the Central American and Caribbean Championships, said he was now in a position where he could create a positive path for these youngsters.
He said there were several things that could be done to make it happen, among which, he noted, “is to get their confidence up and tell them to believe they can compete”. (CMC)