Foto: Jaroslav Odstrčilík

Coleman took the starting bib from the manager of the meeting Alfonz Juck and admitted that he was very flattered by the position of world leader. “It is an honour, a blessing but also a great motivation for me. It is not so important that I am the fastest now. I would like to succeed mainly in Doha World Championship,” he said.

He will start at 200 meters track at the Ostrava City Stadium and it is a big challenge for him. He wants to attack Bolt’s record 19.83 from 2008. “It is not impossible, my personal best is just two hundredth worse and moreover, it is already two years old. Since that time I have got better. Last year I couldn’t run this track because of an injury, but I would like to succeed on the American Championships and qualify to the World Championships. Golden Spike fits me into my yearlong schedule, so that’s why we contacted the organizers with this idea. If the fans stand on my side, I’m ready to run very fast. I love thunderous audience,” he admitted.

The 22-year-old silver medallist from the last World Championships knows that two years ago it was Usain Bolt who dominated the track. And he is flattered that people name him as a Bolt’s successor. “It is a great honour because I have always respected him very much. He has pushed the boundaries of a male sprint to another dimension. On the other side, I am Christian Coleman and my goal is that one day, when I will retire, the world athletics will look for someone who will replace me.”

On Thursday, the spectators will have definitely something to look forward to. The young American revealed that he had already seen the city and visited one shopping mall but he also has a rest and trains. “I wish the weather was good because I love hot weather,” he added with smile.