Ackeem Blake staying focused ahead of the Olympics

World Indoor 100 metres bronze medallist Ackeem Blake says he is ready to put on his best performance at the Paris Olympic Games, and to do this he is remaining focused.

In addition to making sure that he is physically prepared, Blake said he is also working on getting his mind right as he knows he will need this to face the high level of competition expected.

"I have to just focus on myself and not get distracted with what other people are doing," the 2022 North American Central American and Caribbean (NACAC) 100m champion said.

"Competition is always good because it brings out the best of you and it helps you to perform at a higher level than expected," Blake added.

He had to fight hard for a spot on the Olympic team in a strong line-up at the national championships, and Blake said he is going to the Games with the same mindset he had at the national trials.

"It was a very competitive field but I just had to focus on myself and execute my race the best I could. I am just going there (the Olympics) with the same attitude, hoping to do the best I can and focusing on my race and what I have to do," Blake said. He was third at the national trials in 9.92 seconds behind Kishane Thompson who won in a world-leading 9.77 and Oblique Seville, second in 9.82.

Blake also wants to see the Jamaican 4x100m team go for gold at the Olympics this summer.

"We got a bronze medal at the last World Championships so I think once we get together and everyone is healthy we should be challenging for the gold," he said.

Overall, the 22 year-old said he is looking to have a good time in Paris.

"Just looking to get as much experience as I can to better prepare for future games," he said.