Asafa Powell pulls out of Tyson Gay clash

AVIVA London Grand Prix. By Matthew Hinchliffe

The head-to-head clash between Asafa Powell, Jamaica and the US. 100 / 200 metre champion Tyson Gay at this weekends AVIVA London Grand Prix is now off a spokeswoman confirmed today.

 In a short statement Asafa said: “I am disappointed that I will not be able to run at the Aviva London Grand Prix as I love running in front of the Jamaican fans here. We had a great reception in Brixton last month so I’m sorry for fans that I will not be able to run in front of them. I visited the doctor yesterday and he has advised me not to run in order to help with the recovery of my injury. I had hoped I’d be better but unfortunately this is not so.’”

A reporter asked Gay whether he was disappointed or pleased following the news of Asafa’s last minute withdrawal from the competition.

“I’m disappointed because Asafa is a great athlete and next year is a big year. Asafa needs to take time out to recover properly from this injury.“ Said Tyson Gay.

Usain Bolt who was recently beaten by Tyson Gay will not compete. Gay said: “Beating Usain was more important than breaking records. I have received so much support from my home town, it brings home just how much I’ve achieved.”

Other guests at todays conference included unbeaten110 metre high  hurdles champion Oliver and new European hurdles champion Turner from the UK.

US. unbeaten champion Oliver said: “The secret behind my winning ways is that I constantly dream about my lap-of-honour. I guess I just don’t want to get beat.”