Canadian Ben Johnson, who was caught in of one of the most sensational doping scandals in world sport 23 years ago, claimed that football great Diego Maradona and sprint king Usain Bolt followed his fitness programme that he developed after retirement.
Asked about the recent Indian doping scandal, Johnson, who was stripped of gold medal hours after winning the 100m dash in 1988 Seoul Olympics as he returned positive for anabolic steroid stanozolol, said, “I always advise my wards to train hard and improve their endurance. Most importantly, one needs to be mentally tough.
“Over the years I have developed a programme which can help the players improve their physical fitness and mental aptitude. I’ve used them on many including Diego Maradona whom I trained for three weeks in 1997. Even Usain (Bolt) follows my programme,” he said.
Johnson, who is here in connection with the trial of his two Indian origin wards with I—League champion side Salgaocar, felt that 100m world record holder Bolt is the best sprinter now and he can do even better.
“I think he needs to improve his start. He also needs to work more on his flight. There’s no doubt he is the best and would continue to be with his hard work and dedication,” Johnson said even though he did not give a direct reply when asked who is the best sprinter ever.
Johnson, who now runs a sports academy in Canada, said football and athletics have many things in common as both need endurance for someone to excel.
“Obviously, it does. A lot of the basics stay the same — like strength and endurance. One needs to be mentally strong and focused if he is to excel in any of the sports,” he said.
“I have always loved football and even played as a striker for Toronto Links in 1990s. Even during my peak as a sprinter, I never lost touch with football. I was (am) a very good athlete and believe that whatever sport one plays it is important to be a very strong athlete,” he added.
Asked what brings him to India, Johnson said, “I have always been fascinated by India. There is something very mystique about this land and the demographics change every 500 kms. That’s amazing.
“I’m here with two students of my Academy, Gurveer and Karanveer, both of whom are naturally gifted players. They have come for trials and what better club to find a berth for them than the current I—League Champions Salgaocar,” he said.
