My thoughts on…the Gatlin-Powell controversy
May 20th 2006 -
The sporting world was turned upside down when news broke that Justin Gatlin broke Asafa Powell’s world record of 9.77 by 1/100th of a second to become the fastest man in the world. We Jamaicans were shocked, because we had just finished celebrating his world record run, which was the biggest thing in Jamaican sports since the Reggae Boyz qualified for the World Cup. And to see that glory stripped from him was heartbreaking. A short reign as the World’s Fastest Man indeed. But due to the small margin, we were sure our star athlete would once again regain it. The Americans couldn’t be prouder though, as Uncle Sam boastfully paraded the headline on all forms of his media, happy that he once more held the title. Gatlin was ecstatic, and arrogantly declared himself “the best of the best”. But all that changed when a week later, news broke that a timing error caused Gatlin to lose the title. For a brief moment, a light from heaven shone on Powell, and the order of the universe was restored.
I was glad when I heard the news, because Powell wears the title well. He remains humble and focused on his goals, unlike Gatlin, whose head started ballooning once the title was bestowed on him. Typical American athlete. For every ounce of talent they possess, a pound of ego comes with it. And to make matters worse, Team Gatlin actually questioned the accuracy of Asafa’s world record time! What’s the matter Gatlin? Is all this hot air a result of your ego deflating? Well if you hadn’t let it go to your head you wouldn’t be wiping all that humble pie off your face. And I’m not so sure I believe that “timing error” excuse given by the IAAF. It’s rather fishy, because I’ve never known them to making timing errors before. I wonder if there was a plot to cheat Powell out of his title? And considering all the perks that Gatlin would get, such as book, shoe and movie deals, commercials and not to mention fame, it doesn’t seem so farfetched. If it’s any consolation to Gatlin, he and Asafa now share the title of World’s Fastest Man, but knowing Gatlin, that’s not enough. So when these titans of the track clash on June 11 at Gateshead, England, you can be sure Gatlin will bring his A game. Beware Powell. Beware.
Abeni Says:
May 21st, 2006 at 1:33 pm
I always found Gatlin to be quite calm and humble.First time am hearing he questioned Powell’s record.Anyway,the stage is set for a great rivalry between him and Powell.May the best man win
Taylor Says:
May 23rd, 2006 at 2:23 pm
aight. i’m not a sports buff right. but this is what i gotta say. if powell could beat gatlin, why did he allow him to win, initially? the second time he claims it was an injury. if gatlin destroys him next time round i hope i’m there to laugh. now i’m not a hater, but i think people should just keep quite and do what they say they’re gonna do, gatlin ran his mouth of but he certainly did what he said he was gonna do.. as for asafa has he????
Anonymous Says:
May 25th, 2006 at 6:15 pm
WE’LL SEE WHAT HAPPENS BUT LET ME TELL YOU ASAFA IS NO PUSH OVER SO DONT SAY HE CANT BACK THINGS UP BECAUSE HE RAN 9.77 BEFORE GATILIN SO HES FAST JUST ASWELL AS GATILIN IS BUT I SENSE THESE GUYS BOTH ARE HOLDING BACK FOR EITHER THIS MOMENT OR ANOTHER RACE BUT REMEBER BOTH THESE GUYS ARE FAST WELL JUST HAVE TO SEE WHAT HAPPENS.
Chief Lymer Says:
May 26th, 2006 at 9:28 am
Gatlin, like many American athletes loves to run up his mouth. Asafa loves to run-using his legs. I hope he stays true to this philosophy and properly dusts Gatlin at Gateshead.