BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE possibility of sprint icon Kim Collins representing St. Kitts and Nevis again has moved one step closer after an official from the St. Kitts-Nevis Amateur Athletic Association (SKNAAA) declared that the executive body might be open to having discussions with him.
Collins was barred from participating in the London Olympics in 2012 after he allegedly went missing for a number of days while visiting a hotel in which his wife was staying.
He had since vowed to never represent the country of his birth again.
However, last week, it seemed as though Collins had a change of heart when he told the media that his “fans have stepped up and said, 'Hey, we want to see you.'"
Collins is hopeful that consultation could take place between himself and the SKNAAA.
"We have a new executive now, a lot of people have moved on and you have to learn how to forgive. I'm hoping we can sit down and talk and move on from there.
"I don't want to jump the gun and say yes to running at the Commonwealth Games, but deep down I'm thinking it's more possible now."
In an interview with SKNVibes Sports, SKNAAA Public Relations Officer Evris Huggins claimed that the association might be open to discussions with Collins.
“The new executive has not discussed any matters outstanding with Mr. Collins. I think that the new executive would have to get the facts on the circumstances following Mr. Collins.
“I am quite certain that should there be a discussion on the table about Mr. Collins, Mr. Collins would have to be a part of that discussion in order for us to come to an agreement and move forward.”
He also stated that the SKNAAA is happy to have the discussions to try and resolve whatever issues there may be.
“I do not think that the doors are closed for Mr. Collins, and I always maintain the fact that his contribution to the sport over the years should never be overlooked. I am certain the executive will be happy to sit down and discuss whatever issues with him and happy to make a resolution.”
In 2003, Collins was crowned World Champion after winning the 100m in 10.07 seconds, and he followed up this feat in 2011 with bronze in both the 100m and 4X100m Relay at the World Championships in Daegu, South Korea.
