#London2017: Bolt says starting blocks ‘the worst ones ever’
LONDON, England (CMC) – Track and field legend Usain Bolt has slammed the starting blocks used for Friday’s men’s 100 metres heats at the 16th IAAF World Championships as “the worst ones” he has ever used.
The Jamaican, who failed to get away cleanly despite eventually winning heat six, said he had “stumbled” at the start because of the poor blocks.
“I stumbled coming out of the blocks. I’m not very fond of these blocks. I think these are the worst ones I’ve ever experienced,” the three-time world 100m champion said.
“It’s shaky. When I did my warm up it pushed back. It is just not what I am used to. Not as sturdy or firm.”
Bolt won the race in 10.07 to book his place in Saturday’s semi-finals where he will line up in the third race.
The three-time Olympic sprint double champion, Bolt is the eighth fastest going into the next round while fellow Jamaican Julian Forte recorded the fastest time of 9.99 – a personal best.
American Christian Coleman was the next best with 10.01.
Bolt has had a less than smooth build-up to the games as he has struggled with average form and injury but said he was in good enough to shape, judging from Friday’s outing.
“I didn’t run as smooth as I’d like to but the way I got back into the race shows I am in decent form. After the semi-finals I can say what is what.”
Bolt is set to call time on a decorated career following the August 4-13 World Championships here.