LOS ANGELES, May 19: Sydney Olympic gold medal winner Maurice Greene says he is healthier than he has been in a long time and it's just a matter of time before he is setting world records again.
“I am still capable of running world records,” Greene said on Friday. “I just have to knock the cobwebs out first.”
The 32-year-old Greene will compete in the 100 metres at Adidas Track Classic here on Sunday. Tyson Gay, who is ranked No 2 in the world in the 100 metres and 2004 Olympic 200m silver medallist Bernard Williams are also entered in the 100 metres.
“I haven't run a 100 metres in a while so I am looking forward to getting back out there and getting the competitive juices flowing,” Greene said.
Last month Greene withdrew from the Japan Grand Prix because of complications from a dental operation in which he had four teeth pulled.
“The week before I had dental work done. My face was all swollen and it kept me from training for two or three weeks,” Greene said.
Sunday's competition will be the former world record holder's second competitive appearance this year after announcing his plan to go for the gold medal at next year's Beijing Olympics.
He is hoping to compete in the world championships in August.
“My main focus is to get ready for the nationals and put on a show,” Greene said. “Then the most important thing is the world championships.”
At the Millrose Games indoor meet in February, the three-time world champion collapsed in the 60 metres, stumbling after a blistering start.
“I hit a dip and just fell. There is no other way to explain it. It has never happened before but I guess there is a first time for everything.”—AFP