Bolt says he can run relays in Glasgow

Kingston (Jamaica), June 28 (IANS/CMC) Sprint superstar Usain Bolt has made himself available to run the relays at next month’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

The 27-year-old was expected to miss the July 23-August 3 showpiece but said in a release Friday that he was keen on participating in the Games, reports CMC.

He is not participating in the weekend’s National Championships, a qualifier for the Games.

“I do not wish to take the place of anyone who qualifies this weekend in an individual event, but am available for relay duties if the selectors feel I can be an asset to the Jamaican team in Glasgow,” Bolt said.

“I have received lots of requests, invitations and messages of support from my fans in Scotland, who are looking forward to a great event.”

Bolt has been hampered by injury in recent months and is yet to make his debut on the international circuit this season.

Earlier this month, he announced he was pulling out of the Golden Spike in Ostrava on June 17 and the Paris Diamond League meet on July 5.

He said he had already conveyed his decision not to run at the National Championships, to the Jamaica Amateur Athletics Association.

“I am not ready to compete at the Jamaican Championships this weekend, but I have informed the JAAA that I am available for selection for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and have submitted the relevant documents,” Bolt said.

Bolt, the reigning World and Olympic champion, missed the last Commonwealth Games in India as well as the 2006 edition in Australia.

His appearance in Glasgow will be a massive marketing boost for the Games.