Watson sets sights on Champs, World U-20

Western Bureau:

After only competing in one event on Saturday’s final day of the Western Championships at St Elizabeth Technical, Petersfield High School’s Antonio Watson said he is now focused on being in the best of shape for Boys’ Championships and World Under-20 meet and he didn’t want to take any risks.

Watson was a no-show for the 400m final after taking the 200m which sparked concerns about his health. However, the 2018 World Under-18 400 metres champion said he had no fitness problems. “I want to be as healthy as possible for Champs. We can’t risk anything at meets like these, so I’m trying to stay on the healthy side,” Watson said. “I’m also looking further down into the season as there is no greater pleasure than representing the country.”

Watson sped to victory in 21.36 seconds to take the 200m ahead of Ackeem Blake of Merlene Ottey High with 21.49. Rahiem Scott of Rusea’s High was third in 21.53. He is happy to reclaim his title after missing out last year.

“It (200m) means a lot. Last year this time I was hurt and not able to complete as I wanted to. So coming out here after a rough start to the season is a great feeling,” said Watson who believes he doesn’t have anything to prove.

Coach Machell Woolery, who admitted that Watson is not ‘100 per cent’, outlined that he wants him to be fit for the World Under-20s in Nairobi, Kenya.

“At Kirkvine he got spikes in his ankle but he is getting over it. We didn’t want to risk anything, especially given that there was no chance of us winning the ­championship. The objective is for him to double at Boys’ Champs but we will see what happens,” Woolery said.