The Editor, Sir:

It is amazing that Asafa Powell, one of the greatest athletes in the world, was unable to prove himself on the big stage. Asafa's quiet, humble disposition has a lot to do with his inability to fight to the finish line. Whereas Justin Gatlin, Tyson Gay, Usain Bolt and others use bravado to boost themselves and confidence, Asafa is more laid back and obviously prefers to be the underdog or to perform behind the scenes.

I love Usain Bolt, but Asafa Powell is still my favourite. He has disappointed us several times but his composure and humility make him loveable. With Asafa's mentality, he would be a better performer if he competed as a high school athlete or if he attended college in the United States. Continuously competing on the high school stage in Jamaica and/or the inter-collegiate stage in the US would definitely develop his confidence and his fighting spirit. Asafa gives up too easily and that attitude has prevented him from being one of the most progressive sprinters in the record books.

Jamaicans should never give up on Asafa. He is a fine talent but he needs to develop confidence and use more bravado to succeed. I know he must be very disappointed and hurt but he will rise again.

I am, etc.,

TENNISHA A. MORRIS

literacyadvocate@gmail.com

literacyadvocate

Kingston 17

Via Go-Jamaica