media_artricles :: 2014

Hurdler Thomas looking for improved 2015

AFTER A challenging and unexpected end to his 2014 competitive campaign, two-time Olympic 110-metre hurdler Mikel Thomas has rejuvenated his athletic spirits for the forthcoming season by joining forces with the coveted World Athletics Center in Paradise Valley, North Phoenix, Arizona, United States.

Thomas, who recently departed the shores of the twin-island republic en route to the elite training facility, breathed a sigh of relief when his application to the World Athletics Center was accepted approximately two months ago. Having been in talks with the Center’s recruiting coordinator/sprint hurdle coach, Andreas Behm, since July, Thomas expressed elation with his recent relocation.

With several other top-notch athletes representing various track and field disciplines at the Arizona-base, Thomas intends to feed off their personal and professional experiences in an effort to further enhance himself as an elite athlete.

“Since moving to the World Athletics Center in October, I can say it has been a smooth and pleasant transition,” said a pleased Thomas recently. “To be here and able to work in a professional environment alongside great athletes and coaches including the world record holder in my event, Aries Merritt (USA), is a huge honour.”

Since his arrival, the current 110m hurdles national record holder has been working under the expert tutelage of Behm and his colleagues. Thomas expressed his comfort with the levels of professionalism displayed towards athletes and high quality equipment available at the Center. According to him, it’s an athlete’s heaven.

“Coach Behm is also great to work with, and makes my job easier. There is an amazing group of athletes and coaches that create such a conducive environment for success. Everyone is on the same page and striving for greatness,” he added.

On the other hand, Arizona is known for its high temperatures in the spring and summer seasons. However, Thomas is not deterred and is content with the dry weather which privileges him with outdoor training.

“The conditions in the desert have been an adjustment with the dryer conditions but still, it’s a plus because all this sunshine allows me to train outside all year. I’ve yet to see rain yet alone a cloudy day. I might have success already but in coming here, I feel there is still so much more to learn and growth to come. With a plan in place I’m prepared to do the work and see how far and fast we can go,” said the motivated hurdler.

With fluctuating support coming from the Ministry of Sport and Sport Company of Trinidad and Tobago, Thomas has first-hand experience with the unseen financial struggle of national athletes. But, the now 24-year old track star has opted to leave his athletic future in the hands of the Almighty.

“Having the support is very important and makes a huge difference in both back home and abroad. Surrounding myself with people who believe in my talents and abilities. I have been blessed to do what I have with little support and encouragement and believe that great is to come once untied. Together we aspire together we achieve. No man is an island,” he said.

Thomas concluded, ““And Jesus said to him … “If You can?” All things are possible to him who believes,” Mark 9:23.

Top