Tyson Gay runs a 10.0 in return to racing
Tyson Gay crosses the finish line ahead of the pack during the 100-meter B race at the Adidas Grand Prix track and field meet on Randall's Island. (June 9, 2012) Credit: AP
Finishing in 10.0 seconds in the 100-meters normally would've been cause for some concern for sprinter Tyson Gay. But after two hip surgeries and nearly a year away from the track, the former world champion said he was "satisfied" with his performance at the adidas Grand Prix Saturday.
Gay won the "B" group in the men's 100-meters handily at Icahn Stadium on Randall's Island, and while the time wasn't anything near the numbers he has posted in the past, Gay said he felt as good as he had hoped. Running into a headwind, he was happy with his time.
"I'm feeling pretty good," Gay said. "It's been about a year since I ran, and it feels good to come back out here."
The 29-year-old Gay had not raced since pulling out of the U.S. World Championship trials in Eugene, Ore., last June. He had surgery on his hip in July of 2011 and a second procedure in March of this year. His return to the track Saturday represented a test of his fitness and his hip's health, which he said "felt fine".
"I have aches and stuff but I just run through the pain," Gay said.
Gay remains the U.S. record-holder in the 100-meter, but opted to run the "B" race, skipping an opportunity to challenge the Jamaican star Yohan Blake, who won the "A" race in 9.90 seconds. Gay said he'd like to run in one more low-key event if possible before the Olympic trials begin on June 21.
He joked that his coach, Jon Drummond, told him Saturday's event would be "low-key", too.
"Then I see the cameras and I'm like, 'wow,'" Gay said. "I was pretty nervous. But it really did feel good to be back out here."
Gay's time of 9.69 is the second fastest in the world. He also confirmed Saturday that he will not be running the 200-meter if he qualifies for the 2012 Olympics.
Gay said he still needs to work out some technical flaws, but he already has begun to ramp up the workouts. He believes, if he stays healthy, he can once again reach the world's biggest stage.
"I think I have the time to get there," Gay said. "I think I can finally prepare after the trials. As long as I get a few races in, I think that will sharpen me up a lot."
