BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - KITTITIAN sprint icon Kim Collins said that he has not changed his mind on the decision he made to not represent St. Kitts and Nevis ever again, some six months after the London debacle.
At the Olympic Games held in July and August 2012, Collins had his accreditation withdrawn and was subsequently sent home by local Olympic officials who claimed that he went missing for a few days after given permission to be with his wife.
In an interview with The Herald, Scotland, Collins said, “Although it’s been a while since the London Olympic Games, I still wonder: 'What if?' I don't think that I can get over what happened so soon. The event is still fresh and I'm doing my best to work through the effects.
“My mind has not changed about my decision to not represent my country, but you can't deny the fact that I was born in St Kitts and Nevis. There was no apology from anyone - and I don't expect any either. The fans were very supportive and for that I thank them. It made a difference to me to know that there are still fans of me who honestly enjoy watching me compete.”
Collins is expected to return to the track on today (Jan. 26) in the British Athletics International Match at the Emirates Arena in Glasgow to compete against the likes of Britain’s Dwain Chambers in the 60m.
“My winter training is going very well; I feel that I'm in great shape geared specifically for the 60m. My goal for 2013 is to do better than I have in previous years and to compete competitively as always.
“I would like to exhibit my character as a dominant sprinter once more. I still think I can run under 10 seconds [over 100m].”
Speaking before his brother’s death, Collins said: “I am looking forward to coming back to Glasgow; it is my tradition to represent the Commonwealth Select and do well for the team.”
Though he will be turning 37 later this year, Collins still feels that he has a few more years of competitiveness remaining.
“I honestly think that I can be competitive at age 40 in my event, the 100m, but after I reach 40, I think I will retire once and for all,” he said. “I would like to explore coaching after I have finished competing in track and field.”
According to The Herald, Scotland, Collins has not ruled out an appearance at the Commonwealth Games some 18 months from now, but in what capacity remains uncertain. “I may be in Glasgow in 2014, but not as an athlete,” he said.
Collins’ appearance in Scotland was in doubt following the death of his elder brother, Winston Callustus Browne, who was this week shot dead by police after a domestic incident.
