Tyrone Smith believes the best is yet to come from him as he prepares for his assault on next year’s Olympics.The long jumper was named Male Athlete of the Year at the Bermuda Track and Field Association’s (BTFA) banquet on Sunday night for his achievements over the past 12 months.Admitting it was a honour to be named the best in Bermuda for 2011, Smith wouldn’t take the accolades all to himself, thanking all those who have helped him get where he is today.“It’s a great honour to be named athlete of the year,” said Smith. “It’s really an excellent recognition of the work that not just myself but also my coaches, trainers and every one at the BTFA and BOA who put in all year long.“It’s a long process getting ready for and then carrying out a season and this was a great way to cap it off for all those involved with my development.“In my top ten furthest career jumps now, six of them came from the 2011 season so it was a huge step in the right direction.”Qualifying for both the World Championships that were held over the summer and next year’s Olympic Games this year, highlighted his season.For Smith, however, it was a mixed bag of results considering he didn’t achieve a personal best, which was one of his main goals.“I would say I had a pretty good year. It lacked a personal best which I strive to achieve every year. However, I was able to qualify for London and also the World Championships held last summer.“My goal going into the year was to break 8.30 metres and finish in the top five at the World Championships and I failed to meet those goals, so it’s a mixed result for me really.“It was, however, the most consistent over eight metres that I have ever been.Smith was a guest speaker at Sunday’s banquet, talking to the younger athletes about the rigours of the sport and the dedication needed to be successful.Telling stories of his triumphs, the Olympian encouraged the stars of the future to shoot for their dreams and never give up in the face of adversity.“Having the opportunity to speak to the younger athletes is a great honour and responsibility.“I remember the first time I saw an Olympian compete and I was just really impressed and intimidated as he was long jumping in the same flight as me.“I know that as a young athlete having someone who has competed at the highest level speak to you can be amazing and also can help keep you motivated.“I just wanted to tell them all of the amazing things that I have gotten to do or see like being able to yell ‘Are you not entertained’ inside the Coliseum in Rome.“Also I wanted to press upon them that with hard work and sacrifice they could be better than what they can ever imagine.“So it was an excellent opportunity and I hope that I get to do it again in the future.”