Even though cyclist, Njisane Phillip shattered the Men’s 200metre sprint record (9.997 seconds) and received a bronze medal in the 200m fly at this year’s Pan American Games, he had mixed feelings about his performance.

Phillip was elated with his record-breaking ride but expressed his displeasure with the third placed finish.

“You lose gold and you receive silver or bronze. In my case it was bronze and I’m not satisfied. People say it’s good because I just came off a knee injury but if I’m good enough to race, I’m good enough to win, no excuses,” said Phillip.

The 2011 US Sprint Colorado Springs winner admitted that the Pan American Games was a learning experience and is confident of developing into a better cyclist.

“I’m happy for the record though, 9.977. It was a learning experience. The bronze was God telling me I need to work harder and that I’m not ready,” Phillip continued.

Phillip acknowledged that Olympic qualification will be a difficult task and will have to be exceptional at various World Cup tournaments.

“It will be hard. I have six more events to go, four World Cups, Continental Championships and the World Championships. My first World Cup campaign begins next weekend (November, 2011 - 2012 UCI Track Cycling World Cup Classics) in Astana, Kazakhstan. Then in December, it’s Colombia,” added Phillip.

Trinidad and Tobago’s top cyclist reiterated the importance of maintaining his form and peaking at the right moment.

“My approach is that I will be risking it all in these coming races. I have to make it to London; I can’t wait another four years. Everyone is counting on me to just make it. This would be one of my biggest accomplishments and probably the highlight of my career,” stated Phillip.

A fully focused Phillip revealed that he was humbled to know how much support he received from Trinidad and Tobago.

“I really would to thank the people of Trinidad and Tobago for the support, especially the people from my hometown, Siparia. My team and main sponsor Team Cocos, The Beacon Insurance, Oakley and Felt Bicycles. I want to let all my supporters know that I will continue working hard, keep faith in God and everything is possible,” added Phillip.

By Jonathan Ramnansingh

Source: www.newsday.co.tt