Inside versus outside, 200 meters track as opposed to the 400 meters track, no wind factor or wind factor and of course the 60m or the 100m; these are some of the classic differences between indoor and outdoor competitions. The dynamics are so different despite it being the same sport, track and field. Did I say “field”? Yes, even the pole vaulters will tell you that the wind is a factor once the roof is removed!
Despite what I consider considerable differences, there is one constant, competition. The sport is guaranteed a buzz when athletes line up in search of victory whether it is on the 200m oval or outdoors. One’s quest to breast the tape is not altered by where the competition is being held.
I really love competing indoors and appreciate the successes I have had in the process. I enjoy the intimacy of the crowd as their proximity to the athletes automatically provide a positive energy that the larger outdoor venues sometimes fail to offer. As is customarily for me, I spent the last couple months training and running some indoor races, however, with the conclusion of the indoor season in Istanbul, Turkey, my attention is fully turned to the long outdoor season. There has to be a reprogramming of the mind to deal with the variables of outdoor competition.
So now it’s on the outdoor season. I look forward to gradually building up my preparation to the Jamaican Olympic Games Trials at the end of June. My training is quite challenging, however, I am inspired by the fact that it is a fiercely competitive world out there even when the roof is raised!
Until next,
“God Bless”
VCB
