Sport

Felix fears hot Campbell

Veronica Campbell - file photos

HELSINKI, FINLAND, CMC

AMERICAN OLYMPIC SILVER medallist Allyson Felix says that it will be difficult to beat Jamaican Olympic champion Veronica Campbell at the International Association of Athletic Federation (IAAF) World Championships that starts this weekend.

The 19-year old Felix has produced the world's top two performances in the 200 metres this season but believes that in order to defeat Campbell, she will have to carry out a near flawless performance.

"To beat her (Campbell) in Helsinki I need to get out well. I need to execute the first half of the race better, as Veronica is a very strong runner," Felix said.

Felix installed herself as one of the favourites at the Championships by scoring an impressive fast finishing victory over the Jamaican last month at the London Grand Prix.

"(My) focus has been on strength and only at the later part of the season have I moved on to the speed work," Felix noted.

Her teammate and Olympic champion Justin Gatlin staked his claim for the 100 metres title at that meet and said he is out to prove his billing as the world's premier sprinter.

"Championships are about the best man on the day going out and winning. You can only race who is there," Gatlin said in reference to Asafa Powell's injury.

I was the best

"I proved that last year in Athens that I was the best."

The smooth-running 22-year-old also said he would be going after Jamaican Powell's 9.77 seconds world record, but said that adding the world title to his resume was the main priority.

"9.75 seconds is my goal but I am out here first to get the World title," Gatlin said.

Gatlin will also face the starter in the 200 metres where he challenge the likes of Jamaican ace Usain Bolt and says that title is also on his agenda.

"In the 200 metres, I'm going to meet people with fresher legs, as I am the only one, certainly of the Americans, who is doubling here but I am confident to go for both titles," Gatlin pointed out.

Trinidad and Tobago born-American hurdler Kerron Clement has also signalled his intentions for the 10th edition of the World Championships.

The teenager, who eclipsed Michael Johnson's 400 metres indoor world record earlier this year, said he was confident of capturing gold in the event.

Clement said: "Once I get my steps down right I know I can win. I expect gold definitely; I am very hungry for success; the (400 metres hurdles) gold will be in my grasp on Tuesday."