Dacres won’t rush return
Published:Saturday | February 20, 2021 | 12:16 AMDaniel Wheeler/Staff Reporter
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Fedrick Dacres, the World Athletics Championships discus throw silver medallist from 2019, says that he is in no rush to return to competition as he continues his road to recovery in time for the Tokyo Olympics. Dacres, 26, is back in training...
Fedrick Dacres, the World Athletics Championships discus throw silver medallist from 2019, says that he is in no rush to return to competition as he continues his road to recovery in time for the Tokyo Olympics.
Dacres, 26, is back in training after needing surgery to repair ligament damage on his left hand. He previously described the nature of the injury as a ‘freak accident’ after a bad fall. The cast was removed in late December and since then he has started the process of regaining strength in the appendage.
Although track and field is targeting a return to competition after the Government authorised sporting events to resume on a case-by-case basis, and with international meets taking place, Dacres says that he is not yet ready for any competitive events as he is not at the correct fitness level.
“At this point, I would just want to feel good again,” Dacres said. “Based on my training, if I am where I am compatible with others, I will go and compete.
“But for now, because my strength is way below par, it’s more of like getting it back up there to be comfortable again.”
RETURNING TO FULL PRACTICE
Dacres returned to full practice on January 29, executing his first throws since last year’s surgery. While pleased at finally being able to resume training, he says that he is mindful about ensuring that he balances his regimen to ensure that there are no more complications ahead.
“It’s more of a precaution period because of the hand. I think I did the time already, so I think it’s fully healed by now. I am just trying to work as hard as I can right now,” Dacres said. “While it is a bit tender right now, I am still putting on the pressure and seeing what I can do.”
Previously facing a lengthy lay-off which would have had him in a race against time to get fit for the Olympics, Dacres said that he is four months ahead of schedule and he will have the necessary time to return to peak condition and participate in some events before the Games, which he has already qualified for.
Dacres competed in two Velocity Fest meets last year in spite of the COVID-19 pandemic.