Olympics: Motivation the key, Alan Wells tells hopefuls

Olympic legend Allan Wells has told young Scottish athletes that their motivation must come from within.

The man who won 100 metres gold in Moscow in 1980 believes the desire to compete has to be second nature for any athlete. “Just like having your lunch,” he said.

Wells carried the Olympic Torch in the Borders on Thursday after attending a special celebration at Edinburgh Castle the night before – with the precious gold medal he brought home from Russia 32 years ago. Wells returned to Meadowbank Stadium yesterday to join Edinburgh Athletic Club for the unveiling of plaque acknowledging the volunteers who helped him in his Olympic achievement.

“We all have to work to grow the sport in Scotland and the clubs are very important in that,” said Wells, in a special interview for PB – the magazine for the 9,000 members of scottishathletics. “Everyone has to work to take the sport to a higher level. Kids who have an opportunity need support and encouragement.

“I know scottishathletics are working very hard indeed on these issues and that Glasgow 2014 is a very big thing for them. I am involved in a small way but I will help in any way I can to try to raise standards.

“ I changed direction myself at the age of 24. I was a long jumper and had hit a certain level and couldn’t get beyond that but, once I switched to the sprints, I had the desire to work harder every day to improve.

“I had to get it into my head that competing was second nature. Just like having your lunch. And I had to learn to focus on myself – not those standing alongside you on the start line.

“I’d say that to every young athlete. Compete against yourself as much as anyone. Inspiration and motivation has to come from within. If you really want it, you have to really commit to it.”