Bolt's record run teaches Gay as both seek Beijing berths

0 Comments | AFP, June, 2008

EUGENE, Oregon (AFP) — Usain Bolt's 100-meter world record rout of Tyson Gay on May 31 was just the humbling defeat the world champion says he needed to give him a better chance to win a Beijing Olympic rematch.

Jamaica's Bolt won in 9.72 seconds four weeks ago at New York, lowering countryman Asafa Powell's old mark of 9.74, with Gay second in 9.85. The memory lingers as all three seek berths in Beijing this weekend at national trials.

"When he comes to your country, kicks your butt and sets the world record, it can work on your mind a little bit," Gay said Thursday.

"It was a blowout. If I was him I wouldn't expect to lose to me. He took all the pressure off me. He kept me humble as well. I think I needed that and it has really helped me out."

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