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KINGSTON, Aug 15 (Reuters) - Jamaicans are split down the middle over which of their world-class sprinters stands the best chance of winning the men's 100 metres at the Olympic Games in Beijing.
Usain Bolt, whose world record time of 9.72 seconds in New York on May 31 shocked the world, and former record holder Asafa Powell eased through their first-round heats on Friday. "I know that it will be Bolt all the way, in fact, I believe that he will take the sprint double as there are few who should beat him in the 200 metres," said Catherine Jones, a housewife from Bolt's home parish of Trelawny in the northwest. "Asafa all the way, man," countered Marlon Green, a welder from St. Catherine, the home parish of Powell. "The way that Asafa has been running in the last month makes me believe that he cannot be beaten over the distance," Green said.
Hometown sentiments are natural but although the rivalry is fierce, both sides have moved to underline the great friendship the two athletes share.
"We are good friends and we respect each other," Powell said last month.
Many Jamaicans believe the Caribbean island, which has never won gold in the event, will not only land the big prize but also the silver.KINGSTON, Aug 15 (Reuters) - Jamaicans are split down the middle over which of their... more
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