Guyana’s 2018 Commonwealth Games gold medalist, Troy Doris, was readying himself at the start of the season to take on the challenges of the 2020 scheduled Olympic Games.
A finalist at the last Olympics, the ace triple jumper was looking forward to making his mark in Tokyo this summer.
Then the news of the postponement of the event to 2021 came following the outbreak of COVID-19.
Initially, the USA-based Doris was a bit disappointed but he then put things into perspective.
“I was a bit disappointed,” said Doris via telephone yesterday but added “but it was quickly put into perspective, just knowing what was happening in the world around me and that everyone was experiencing this enormous loss of jobs and huge disruption.”
Doris added “ I had my sights set on becoming an Olympic finalist again this year but I’m all for prioritizing the health and safety of athletes and spectators. All I can do is remain focused on the new dates for qualification and be prepared when the time comes.”
Doris would have been Guyana’s best bet to medal if this year’s Games went ahead.
The Chicago-born Doris plans to make hay in the sunshine ahead of the Games next year.
“I plan to essentially get back to competition shape. Early season I plan to take extra time for rehab and do some general strength work. Since they’re doubling up on World Championships Outdoor, Indoor and Olympics, I’ll aim to compete at two to three of those. Of course Olympics being one of them.”
The 31 year-old has lofty goals. To medal at the 2021 Olympics is one of them.
“I’m still inspired and looking for another personal best this coming year as well to place me high in the rankings and contend for a spot on the podium of the major Championships.”
Doris concluded by stating that when the time comes to start competition training and competing in-person again ahead of the Games, he feels confident steps will be taken to ensure the safety of all athletes.
