2 October 2013

Adam Gemili (coach: Michael Afilaka) is using Usain Bolt’s recent words of advice to good measure.

Gemili’s record breaking achievements since his breakthrough in 2012 and have not gone unnoticed by the Olympic and World champion.

Following the IAAF Diamond League in Zurich at the end of season, Bolt gave a ringing endorsement of the Blackheath & Bromley athlete to the BBC.

“I got to know Usain a lot more off the track at the World Championships. He’s a really great guy, humble and down to earth,” said the 19-year-old.

“He had some great advice for me.

“For the world’s best sprinter ever to know who you are, recognise who you are and to say some great things it makes you happy and gives you motivation to actually try and become great.”

2013 saw Gemili become the second fast Briton ever over 200m, fifth in the World Championships 200m final and 100m gold at the European Under 23 Championships.

Gemili has now taken stock of his 2013 achievements and is aiming high for 2014.

“Overall I would describe (2013) as positive,” he admitted. “To come away fifth in a World Championships final and running the second quickest time a Brit has ever run for an event is such a great feeling.

“I’m so thankful to everyone that’s part of my team that helped me get there.

“Next year the aim is to still be competitive on a world stage. Finishing fifth in Moscow people say it comes with pressure but I don’t see it as pressure, but I’d like to be up there amongst the world’s best.”