Success is not always measured by first place finishes. For Nicolas this past weekend in Winnipeg, success was to be measured by running up to three 100m races pain free. And a success it was, as he finished in 3rd place in the 100m final on Saturday behind winner Pierre Browne and silver medalist Anson Henry. With no "A" qualifying standard so far in 2005, a clocking of 10.21 seconds or better was a consideration entering the weekend. But how realistic an expectation was that, really? Hobbled with a groin injury since late May, the preliminary heats on Friday were his first competitive run since Hermosillo, Mexico. His recent inactivity was clearly evident in the heats, running 10.55 seconds (+0.9 m/s) in heat three and looking rusty. Saturday's times were no better, impacted negatively by headwinds in excess of 4 m/s, which ruined many a hopes of hitting qualifying standards. Nic's semi-final time, 2nd fastest of the semi's, was 10.68 (-4.0 m/s) and in the final he clocked 10.76 (-4.2 m/s). Again, noteworthy was the fact that but for some minimal discomfort, the groin cooperated quite nicely the whole weekend. This explains a beaming Nic smile post race and high-flying rest of the day Saturday, as he hit the water slides with friends and entertained many at dinner with his favorite pastime of amateur magician. But it's back to business this week, as some heavy lifting remains to be done. Plans are for an immediate return to the competitive circuit, which will assist in being ready in Helsinki for the World Championships that begin on August 6. galako62904@yahoo.com |
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