Usain Bolt on the blocks for Glasgow 2014

Published on 25/11/2012 00:00

USAIN Bolt’s declaration that he intends to compete at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow has been described as the “icing on the cake” for event organisers.

The Jamaican superstar, who has won the 100m, 200m and 4x100m titles at the past two Olympics, yesterday spoke of his plans to race in at least one event when the games come to Scotland in two years.

A Commonwealth Games gold medal is one of the only accolades missing from an otherwise bulging trophy cabinet. Speaking in Barcelona, Bolt said: “That’s the only title I don’t have, so I think it’s something I’d like to go for, even if I do just one event.”

David Grevemberg, chief executive of Glasgow 2014, said it was a “fantastic vote of confidence” to have Bolt planning to compete. He added: “Glasgow and Scotland will create a wonderful stage for stars such as these to shine.”

Scottish sprint legend Allan Wells predicted that Bolt would be the first of a flood of international stars committing ahead of time to Glasgow.

He said: “It’s the icing on top of the cake, as they say. To have a character, a world-class athlete and the best we’ve ever had competing in the Commonwealth Games is going to be fantastic for Glasgow and for Scotland. It’ll create certainly a lot more interest in the sprints. Maybe they should just give 
him the medals before he comes?”

Bolt’s presence would promise a mouth-watering showdown in the men’s 100m, with London silver medallist and Jamaican rival Yohan Blake also eligible for competition.

Shona Robison, minister for the Commonwealth Games and sport, said: “The involvement of one of the world’s greatest sportsmen can only add to what is going to be an incredible occasion.”