By Tamica Garnett
Hardware Company Toolsie Persaud Limited is continuing with its investment in athlete Kenneth Semple.

Having sponsored a training stint in Trinidad and Tobago earlier this year  as well as Semple’s  participation at the Hampton Games held  July 2-3, the company has once again stepped forward with an investment package for the young sprinter. At a press conference held at the company’s Lombard Street outlet on Friday, it was disclosed that the company had approved sponsorship for a five-month, off season training programme for the 100 and 200m specialist.

The cost of the training programme is $173,000 and Manager of the Hardware Division, Mohan Harnandan on Friday handed over the endorsement to Semple.

Semple is being groomed for participation at next year’s World Athletics championships scheduled South Korea and possibly, the 2012 London Olympics.

Semple, who has a personal best time of 10.47 seconds in the 100m, would need to make the qualifying time of 10.28 seconds to qualify for either event.

Before he proceeds on his five-month training routine Semple will undergo a detoxification process to rid his body of all toxins, the cost of which is also included in TPL’s sponsorship.

During the training period the 21-year-old will embark on a five month strength and endurance programme under the watchful eye of his coach, John Martins. Martins, who is the head coach of the Enmore Athletics Club of which Semple is a member, expressed his profound gratitude to the company and  extended heartfelt thanks to the Director, Vinod Persaud.

In addition to the Hampton Games, Semple had, earlier this year, attended the Mannie Ramjohn Games in Trinidad and Tobago.