Sport
Kenya’s David Rudisha ready to dominate the 800 metres at Olympics
Taking Olympic gold was still going to be “tough,” Rudisha said, because of his reputation as the favorite. But he’s inspired by father Daniel’s silver medal in the 4×400 relay at the 1968 Mexico City Games.
“Yes I know people are expecting a lot from me because of my reputation in the 800 metres,” he said. “I know there’s a lot of pressure from everywhere.
“I know it’s tough and it’s hard to maintain and always win races. I want to bring back a gold medal so we (him and his father) can have two medals from the Olympics.”
Despite his status as the outstanding 800-metre runner of the last two seasons, it’s not yet guaranteed that Rudisha will be on the Kenyan team for the Olympics. With about 18 Kenyans already having gone inside the qualifying time for the 800 in London, the African country’s Olympic trials will be as fiercely competitive as ever.
“In Kenya it’s quite difficult. There’s no guarantee. I cannot depend on selection,” Rudisha said, although it’s almost certain that the country will send their world record holder to the games as a wild card pick even if he doesn’t qualify automatically by finishing first or second at the trials.
Rudisha also said this year’s Olympics was “the right time” for him to compete in the 4×400 and follow in his dad’s footsteps.
“I think this time around I’m a bit flexible and I think I can do that,” he said.
Copyright 2012 The Associated Press
