Former Olympic champion Kirani James arrived in Barbados on Thursday, ahead of Saturday’s Grand Prix at the Usain Bolt Complex.
Speaking to Barbados TODAY after arriving at the Grantley Adams International Airport, the Grenadian 400-metre star said he was looking forward to competing as he continues his preparations for the season.
“Yeah, it’s very exciting. As Caribbean athletes we don’t have a lot of opportunities to compete in the region, so when there’s an opportunity that is substantial, you want to make sure that everything is conducive for you to compete here. I’m glad that this year everything worked out for me specifically to be here and I’m very excited to come in and compete.
“This will be my second meet of the year so form-wise I’m still working to see where I’m at and still working out some things. Just kind of really trying to build for the rest of the season,” he said.
The 33-year-old James won 400m gold at the 2011 World Championships and was crowned Olympic champion the following year in London.
He also spoke about what continues to drive him in the sport.
“Just personal goals and just continuing to represent my country, my family and the people that are important to me. I’m just trying to keep making them proud.
“Sport is so ingrained in us as humans that when it invokes a special feeling on both sides of it, then we want to keep that going for as long as you possibly can,” he explained.
(KH)
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