In a candid address at the Kerala Literature Festival in Kozhikode, Canadian sprint legend Ben Johnson, whose name remains etched in Olympic history for both triumph and controversy, declared that "sprinters are born and not made." This statement comes from an athlete who experienced the pinnacle of success and the depths of disgrace, having stunned the world by clocking 9.79 seconds in the 100-meter category at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, only to be stripped of his gold medal three days later after testing positive for anabolic steroids.
The Philosophy of a Fallen Champion
Johnson emphasized that raw talent is fundamental to sprinting, but he also highlighted the indispensable role of personal attributes in achieving greatness. "Without determination, drive, and passion, an athlete would never succeed," he asserted during the session. Reflecting on his own tarnished legacy, he maintained that doping in sports does not elevate an individual to greatness in any discipline. "It might help in recovery, so that you can train harder and keep improving," he added, acknowledging its potential role in physical conditioning while distancing it from true athletic prowess.
Rivalry with Carl Lewis: A Decades-Long Duel
Johnson delved into the intense rivalry with American sprint icon Carl Lewis, which captivated audiences throughout the 1980s. He described their competitiveness as enduring for decades, noting that "Lewis was really good in the early 80s and until 1984 he was the best. He was fast but not fast enough." According to Johnson, a pivotal shift occurred in 1985. "Everything changed and I beat him in every competition," he recalled, attributing his edge to a specific technical advantage. "He is a good sprinter, a fast runner, and a good finisher. But my secret weapon was my start from the blocks and the steep acceleration."
Personal Journey: From Jamaica to Olympic Glory
Recounting his personal journey, Johnson shared how he moved from Jamaica to Canada as a teenager, driven by a profound motivation. His achievements, including the fleeting Olympic gold in 1988, were fueled by a desire to give back to his mother. "That gave me the drive, the passion, and the humility to believe that one day I could achieve my goal," he explained. This sense of responsibility deepened when he took on the role of supporting his family at the age of 20, instilling in him a relentless fear of failure after years of rigorous training and sacrifice. "It was I cannot fail this journey, I have to win," Johnson said, encapsulating the pressure that defined his career.
Legacy and Lessons in Sports
Johnson's insights at the festival offer a unique perspective from an athlete who has navigated both the heights of victory and the consequences of scandal. His remarks underscore the complex interplay between innate ability, hard work, and ethical conduct in sports. By sharing his experiences, he contributes to ongoing discussions about talent development, competition, and integrity in athletics, reminding audiences that while sprinters may be born, their paths are shaped by choices and circumstances.
