Big duel ahead for Bolt and Powell

sked about his shape at todays Strawberry Party held at the British Embassy Bolt seemed confident: “I can’t really complain. The key thing for me is that I am injury-free and I see I am making progress. I have good memories from Oslo – although the weather last year wasn’t so great the crowd was spectacular. And that’s always a wonderful thing for me”, Bolt complimented the Norwegian fans.

For him it’s the second time at the Bislett Games, for Powell on the other side it’s the fifth start in Oslo. “I think I need a Norwegian passport now”, Powell joked at the press conference under the Strawberry Party. “To be honest, it’s a good feeling to come back here. It’s always fantastic in Oslo so I am quite motivated. I’m in a good shape but haven’t been able to get it together yet. For all of us the Bislett Games are a very important step before the Olympics and I really hope the put me in a good state of mind!”

An evaluation Bolt seconded right away: “That’s definitively true for me as well. I came to Europe to run more races and do some more analyzing so that my coach can get me ready for London! My season so far has been much better. Last year it was more of an up-and-down but this one has been quite consistent. I hope it stays like that!”

Despite their big Olympic goal this season the Bislett Games are more than just a “small step” for them. Both are looking forward on competing once again against each other. The aim is clearly the same: “Run faster than the other.”

Simple as that.