GB sprinter focused on winning a medal in Zurich rather than dwelling on the past

James Dasaolu, who leads British hopes in the 100m at the European Championships, insists he is looking forward rather than ruing a missed opportunity to win a medal at the Commonwealth Games.

Dasaolu was not picked by England for Glasgow as he had been injured and not raced this outdoor season before the selection deadline. Even though he had the standard from last year, the selection policy favoured athletes with the mark from this year.

In his absence, Jamaica’s Kemar Bailey-Cole claimed victory with England’s Adam Gemili taking silver.

Dasaolu has since begun his season in style with two 10.03 clockings and is seeking a medal in Zurich rather than dwelling on Glasgow.

“I’d have loved to have been part of the Games, but the Commonwealths are done and gone,” he said. “I was aware of the selection criteria. You had to post a time in early May and unfortunately I didn’t meet that criteria so I’ve just got to keep looking forward and I’ve got the European Championships to focus on.”

Dasaolu, who was world No.1 at 60m indoors last winter before injury struck, is second quickest among the entries behind France’s Jimmy Vicaut.

The man who ran 9.91 last year is confident he is on peak form again. He said: “I’m pretty much 100%. I’ve run 10.03 twice already and I’ve done a few more sessions to sharpen up and, going into the championships, I have no injuries, no niggles and training’s been going well.”

After starting his season on July 3, he believes missing the Commonwealths could work to his advantage.

“I feel quite fresh, like I have a lot to give,” he said. “I took four or five races last year before I reached my peak. I definitely think in a way it’s worked to my advantage.”

Dasaolu has gained a reputation for being fragile when it comes to injuries. It is one he thinks is unfair and he is confident he will get through the three rounds in Zurich unscathed.

“I’ve done the work,” he said. “I’m a different athlete than I was last year. I’ve been able to increase my training load, which is going to help me to deal with getting through the rounds.”

Dasaolu’s campaign in the 100m gets under way on the opening day of the championships on Tuesday.

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