media_artricles :: 2014

Keshorn’s coach believes he can throw even further

Ismael Lopez Mastrapa, coach of Olympic javelin gold and Commonwealth Games silver medallist Keshorn Walcott, revealed yesterday that his athlete can launch the spear even further than his personal best distance of 85.32 metres, which he attained during the qualifying round of the recently concluded Commonwealth Games.

Speaking to the Cuban-born coach after returning from their successful European campaign, Mastrapa openly admitted that he was satisfied with Walcott’s performance especially due to the challenges he has had to face.

“For me as coach, Keshorn did well at the Commonwealth Games. Many people do not know what he had to endure and overcome leading up to the Games though. My athlete can throw even bigger distances but prior to Scotland, he had to conquer a couple injuries. It was tough but I must give great thanks to our physiotherapist, who made sure he was in good form,” said Mastrapa.

The field coach, who also trains shot put specialist Commonwealth silver medallist Cleopatra Borel, expressed confidence with the in- form javelin thrower and indicated that the just concluded tourney was a good gauge for him.

According to Mastrapa, the Glasgow event was Walcott’s most important meet for 2014. And even though the reigning Olympic champion is expected to take part in approximately three more global meets for the year, Mastrapa is confident he can earn precious metal.

“He has thrown over 80 metres eight times for the year thus far. Not many people know this but Keshorn has always been in good form. However, there were some issues with his elbow recently and he was told that he could not throw the javelin for approximately four weeks. This was an unexpected blow to us but Keshorn is a warrior and overcame with the help of our physio. He may compete in a couple more international competitions later this year but thus far, I am happy with his progression since the Commonwealth is the biggest field tournament for 2014,” said Mastrapa.

Looking towards the Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro in 2016, the 2012 North America, Central America and Caribbean Athletics Association (NACAC) Coach of the Year, hopes to continue helping Walcott conquer personal and competitive barriers. He noted that Walcott is still not up to his full potential, maybe around 90 percent presently, and does not want to put too much pressure on him for fear of future injury.

Over the next two years leading up to the Olympics, Mastrapa has a regime setup for Walcott, which will assist his throwing development. He is hoping to better the 20-year old’s footwork, particularly his ankles when throwing.

Mastrapa concluded, “We have plans and programmes in place for him. His training programmes are reaping success and he has plenty years ahead. It’s only two years till we head to Brazil but currently his development is a good indicator for us. Keshorn is a very consistent athlete and at any moment you can expect him to do even better and surprise us all.”

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