Focusing on big goal with refreshed mind

AFTER his heroics at London, where he won Qatar their first medal in track and field since Mohammed Suleiman’s 1,500M bronze at the 1992 Barcelona Games, life has changed much for Mutaz Essa Barshim.

Every time the star Qatari high jumper steps on to the field, expectations have soared high and he has mostly been able to live up to them though there have been disappointments as well.

Mutaz has been planning meticulously for Rio and he cut down on many indoor meets despite the fact that some of his best showings have come in the closed arena.

“No one can stop what God has written for me. Success comes from pushing yourself. I’ve watched amazing athletes do unbelievable things and now it’s my turn. I’m ready for it. My body feels great right now and I pray it remains the same in Rio,” said Mutaz.

Since jumping a career-best 2.43M at the Brussels Diamond League meet in 2014, Mutaz has not been able to meet the lofty standards he has set. Having endured a miserable 2015 during which he could finish only fourth at the Beijing Worlds, the 25-year-old hopes to put all that  behind as he gets ready for his second Olympics.

“Last year was a bit up and down, but overall it was good. I had some fitness issues too. I was perhaps competing in too many events and getting tired quickly.

“But the good thing is that it happened before the Olympic year, so I exactly know how to go about it. Now I can focus on the big goal with a refreshed mind,” added Mutaz.

At Rio, he has set his priorities clear.

“Yes, an Olympic gold would just be great. It’s the ultimate stage and that’s the aim,” he concluded with his characteristic smile.

sajith@dohastadiumplusqatar.com