media_artricles :: 2016

Daniel predicts at least three TT Olympic medals

Former Olympic 400m and 4x400m sprinter, Alvin Daniel, is predicting at least three medals for Trinidad and Tobago at the 2016 Olympic Games which opened yesterday with a grand ceremony in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil.

This nation had its best ever showing (one gold, one silver, two bronze) at the London Games four years ago and Daniel believes more success could follow with the likes of reigning javelin champion Keshorn Walcott, 100m sprinters Michelle Lee Ahye and Kelly-Ann Baptiste, and quarter-milers Machel Cedenio, Deon Lendore and Lalonde Gordon all in excellent form leading up to Rio.

In an interview with Newsday yesterday, Daniel stated,"Once you reach at the Olympics, everyone has a very good chance...

If I had to predict if Keshorn can win gold again, it would be good for Trinidad and Tobago but nevertheless the 4x100 women and likewise the 4x400 men." Daniel said it would be foolish to write off TT 's other athletes as they are all prepared to peak at the Games and can secure a podium place.

Among the other main contenders are Ahye and Baptiste (women's 100m), Jehue Gordon (400m hurdles), Njisane Phillip (Flying Sprint) and the 4x100m men's relay team of Richard Thompson, Keston Bledman, Rondel Sorillo and Emmanuel Callender.

"Their capabilities and experience can lead to them pulling off medals as well," he pointed out.

An obviously excited Daniel said he was eagerly awaiting the opening ceremony and stressed it is always an honour for athletes to represent the people of their country.

Despite showing an interest in the achievements of TT 's athletes in the various sports such as gymnastics, cycling and boxing to name a few, he readily admitted that he has a bias for athletics.

As a former TT runner he said he respects the sacrifice, dedication and hard work involved in the discipline of track and field as "there are a lot of things you have to give up." Daniel noted that TT 's athletes are better equipped for success than in the past when funding and sponsorship for athletes were extremely hard to come by.

He believes money woes should not deter athletes from participating as they are doing something positive for their country. He also urged Governments to deal with all problems plaguing sport so youths can be encouraged to participate.

"To really make our country proud, we need to deal with problems such as the lack of facilities and also the great potential we are showing for the country.

If they can come on board and really help, I think our sport and sporting discipline can go a very long way," he declared.

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