Maurice Greene with young fans (© Allsport)
2 August 2002
The IAAF is delighted to welcome the World’s Fastest Man – Maurice Greene – as a regular On-line Diary contributor. Read, in his own words, what he thinks about red Ferraris, the French Riviera, working hard and a band called DMX …
"I am currently back home in Los Angeles after spending almost a month in Europe. My season so far has had its ups and down but that’s sport. At the moment I am training very seriously, working hard on details so that I can come back to Europe for the second part of the season and run as fast as possible.
"The last time you saw me on a track was in Monaco for the Herculis Golden League meeting. I must tell you how much I love that place. It is so relaxing and beautiful. Each year I try to stay in the Principality as much as possible and in 2002 I stayed for a week before my competition.
"In the gorgeous red Ferrari I had rented for the week, and with my friend Ato Boldon at my side, I took the time to visit the Riviera. I particularly enjoyed Nice and Juan les Pins. I had a lot of fun on the beach there. I’d say the French Riviera is the perfect place for a holiday.
"In order to get rid of all the tension and stress that built up on my last European tour, I am now making use of my leisure time. I love going to the movies, I enjoy spending time with my friends and partying. I need to get my mind off the stress of the sport and, believe me, I’m doing that right now!
"My favourite music is Rap and R’nB. Before the start of a race, when I’m finalising my preparations, I always listen to a group called DMX. It motivates me.
"I didn’t get a chance to watch either the Commonwealth Games or the World Junior Championships on TV but I‘ve seen the results of the Juniors and all I can say is WOW! These youngsters are running fast. I was particularly impressed by the results of the USA team and I am sure that the next big name in track and field will be one of them.
"Well, the next time you’ll see me on a track will be in Zurich on 16 August for the next Golden League Meeting. I will fly out of LA on 10 August so that I have plenty of time to get acclimatised to the weather, the time difference and the place. I want to be totally ready for this very important race ...
"Speak to you again soon!"
Maurice Greene