Bolt's handlers deny making commitment

KINGSTON (CMC):

Usain Bolt's handlers have denied that the Jamaican mega sprint star has confirmed his participation at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in India next October.

In a quick response to the Games' chief organiser's announcement that Bolt will compete at the October 3-14 event, the Olympic champion's handlers said his appearance is not yet certain.

Bolt's management team has not ruled out his appearance for the New Delhi event, but declared the double sprint world record holder was yet to make a final decision on his plans.

Bolt's manager Ricky Simms said a decision should be made by next summer.

"I've spoken to Glen Mills (Bolt's coach) who confirmed that no decision will be made about Usain's participation in the Commonwealth Games until May-June 2010," Simms said.

Suresh Kalmadi, chairman of the Commonwealth Games organising committee, had declared at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Port of Spain last weekend, that Bolt would take part in the 2010 Commonwealth Games.

Although Bolt's management has made clear its position, Kalmadi remained steadfast and reaffirmed his confidence that Bolt will compete.

"I personally had a word with him (Bolt) and I am positive that he will participate," Kalmadi said.

"No one gives a confirmation so much in advance. All the athletes confirm a month or even 15 days before the event," he added.

Bolt's participation in New Delhi would be considered a huge boost for the Games.

In the past two years, the 23-year-old sprint ace has emerged as track and field's biggest world star.

He won the sprint double in world record times at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and lowered his records when he clocked 9.58 seconds (100m) and 19.19 (200m) to land the sprint double at the IAAF World Championship in Germany in August.

Last month, track and field's world governing body, the International Association of Athletics Federations, named him as repeat-winner of the Male Athlete of the Year award.