Gone with the wind, Bolt still happy with storming time in Ostrava

By Gary Smith, World-Track

OSTRAVA, Czech Republic – Usain Bolt says was not disappointed by the slight wind push that robbed him of one of the best performances in history at the Ostrava Golden Spike Ostrava on Wednesday.

The Olympic champion recovered from a poor start to storm to victory in 9.77seconds, the fastest time of this season.

But although the time was accomplished in a following wind reading of 2.1 metres per second, the Jamaican was delighted with the run.

“I am definitely satisfied with this performance despite the wind,” the laid-back Bolt said after his celebrations. “It was a good run.

“I got a bad start, but I got back in last part so I am pretty satisfied with myself. It would have been good if there wasn’t any wind, but I am still proud of myself anyways.”

After beating the cold and rain in Toronto to win the 100m in 10.00secs last week, Bolt took full advantage of the best weather in his three seasons at the Ostrava meeting and promised to be back next year.

“This was the best weather I have ever been in here,” said the Jamaican, who at the news conference on Tuesday targeted a time of 9.80secs if it was warm.

“I’ll definitely be here next year,” he promised. “Hopefully next season when I come back it will also be like this so I can do even better.”

Bolt, the star attraction at the meeting, was chauffeured into the stadium, along with several other stars, including Felix Sanchez and American Bershawn Jackson.

He then got things off with his routine pre-race animations, which amused the crowd and he vowed to continue enjoying his sport.

“I always enjoy myself when I do track and field. It’s always fun and will continue to enjoying it.”

The race in Ostrava was his third 100m of the season, following another wind assisted 9.93sec in Jamaica and his most record outing in Canada.