He isn’t called Super Dupa E for nothing.
Double Olympic Bronze medalist Emmanuel Callender has earned that nickname and has more than a handful of medals to prove it.
The two-time Central American and Caribbean (200 and 100 metres) champion and 2011 Pan American Bronze medalist had reason to celebrate again in August when he, along with fellow sprinters Richard Thompson, Keston Bledman and Marc Burns, captured Bronze in the 4x100 metres relay at the 2012 Olympic Games in London.
A graduate of Curepe Junior Secondary, Callender spends his free time mentoring students at schools throughout Trinidad, highlighting the importance of getting a sound education and staying on the straight and narrow.
The ambitious sprinter says it’s important to him to be a positive role model for the nation’s youth.
In a recent chat with METRO, Callender said he recently traded the sunshine for the bitter cold that is New York City’s winter to take his training routine to the next level.
And while he will miss out on having a Trini Christmas this year, the Arouca resident says it’s a sacrifice he has to make.
However, he did tell us that he wouldn’t mind if “a generous person” sends him some Christmas goodies!
What do you think of when you hear the word Christmas?
When I hear the word Christmas I think of the birth of Jesus Christ and the good things He has done for me. It’s also a season for giving not only material things but love.
It’s a time for bonding and togetherness for families. A time for coming together to clean, cook and paint, just to name a few--All for the greater good.
How early do you start your Christmas preparations?
My mom and sisters usually start in September or November.
Do you have a family Christmas tradition?
Yes I do. We keep a family get together by each family member where everyone contributes.
What is nice about it is if you don’t have anything to give, you can still come.
Have your views on Christmas changed from when you were a child?
Yes, as a child I used to think about getting presents but now I more think about giving.
I liked cleaning around Christmas time for it brought a sense of relaxation and great satisfaction after all the work is done. I think a lot of that has been lost with some youths today.
Who does the Christmas cooking in your family? My mother and my sisters.
What is your favourite Christmas dish?
Red beans, stew chicken, bake chicken, callaloo, potato salad, fresh salad, vegetable rice and baked potato.
What would be your ideal 2012 Christmas present? It would be for love and peace throughout Trinidad and Tobago.
What is your wish for T&T for the New Year? For love and peace in Trinidad and Tobago and that we all find it through Christ.
Source: www.metro.co.tt