Sprinter Houston still gunning for Games

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Bermuda sprinter Tre Houston has not given up hope of qualifying for this summer’s Olympic Games in London.

Houston has split his season between competing in the UK and US under the watchful eye of his world-renowned coach Tony Lester, whose sprint stable he trains with in London.

The 22-year-old is just two tenths of a second off the qualifying mark in his preferred event, the 200 metres, and will look to shave more time off his personal best (20.91) at a meet in Switzerland this weekend.

“I must say I’m very pleased with the season besides me having a minor (injury) setback during pre-season,” said Houston, who represented Bermuda at the 2011 Pan Am Games and 2010 Commonwealth Games.

“I’m still trying to qualify for Olympics; I’m feeling good about it and I’m not far off from the time at all which is 20.70. Last season I ran 20.91 but that’s history; it’s all about going faster this year. This year my coach and I are fully focused on the 200 metres, knowing it’s my best event.”

Houston started the season strongly, opening up with a time of 21.21 in the 200 metres at a meet in California. He has since posted times of 10.67 in the 100 metres and 21.33 in the 200 metres, while competing in the UK.

“I’m much stronger, fitter and faster this year but the main thing is to stay healthy throughout the season,” he said. “I’m pleased with my times this season and I know I’m in shape to run faster.”

In track and field so far, only long jumper Tyrone Smith has met the Olympic standard although Arantxa King (long jump) and Aaron Evans (800m) also hope to join him.

Houston received $15,000 from the Bermuda Olympic Association’s London preparation fund to boost his chances of qualifying for the Games.

The grant enabled him to continue his training at Brunel University in London.

He will be among the top local athletes returning home for the Bermuda Powerade Track and Field Championships at the National Sports Centre from June 15 and 16.

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