50.47 season opener for Sanya Richards in Waco (© Errol Anderson)
2 May 2008In her latest diary twotime ÅF Golden League Jackpot winner Sanya Richards checks in to update us on her initial early season races, her training, and what’s in store for the next few weeks...
On her first solo race, a world-leading 50.47 at the Michael Johnson Invitational in Waco on 19 April...
The race in Waco was a good start to my season. I opened up with a similar time in 2006 and I went on to have a great year. I wanted to run faster but | was happy with how I executed my race and feel that with better competition I will run faster. I thought my first two hundred was right on, but I don't think I ran the second half of my race as well as I could.
Coach Hart was pleased with my run. It was a really windy day and even though I hoped to run really fast anyway, he knew the wind would affect my time. However he was happy with my effort and felt as though I was where he wanted me to be at this point in the season.
On her current phase of training...
Right now my workouts are going really well. Coach Hart likes to focus on our speed endurance so most of our workouts are multiple runs with short rest or over-distance work. My toughest day is on Tuesday when I have 2x500 or 2x450.
I feel ten times stronger now than I was this time last year. I missed a lot of training in 2007, but I have been able to train consistently this season and I can feel the difference.
On her outings at last weekend’s Penn Relays...
The Penn Relays were a great preview of what's to come in 2008. Both relays were very exciting and I was happy to be able to run on both teams. I think the coaches are going to have a hard time picking the 4x1 and 4x4 because there is so much talent and depth this year.
On her race at this weekend’s Jamaica International...
I love returning to Jamaica to compete. I always get such a warm reception and there are very few places that the fans are as enthusiastic as their fans. I remember competing in Kingston when I was really young and nothing's changed. The people love a good meet and they let you know when they are pleased with your performance.
On her upcoming appearances leading up to the U.S. Trials...
I have four more meets before the trials but all my focus is on being the best I can be in late June. I, more than anyone, understand the importance of being the best at the trials and I am doing everything I can do to take care of my body and run enough races so that I am prepared to make my second Olympic team.
On what she’s been up to off the track...
I have been really busy off the track, however the most exciting thing I've done recently is a national commercial with AT&T that will begin to air on May 26th. It was filmed in San Francisco and I had a blast. I didn't realize how much time and planning went into a 30sec spot. It was amazing and an unforgettable experience.
Sanya
