The awards for Asafa Powell keep pouring in as he was yesterday presented with the Commonwealth Games Sports Foundation Athlete of the Year.
By Anthony FosterEnglish-based Al Hamilton, founder of the foundation, made the presentation to the world 100m record holder inside the University of Technology's (UTech) Alfred Sangster Auditorium.
Surprised by award
Powell said he was surprised when first told he won the award.
"I am very happy about this, when I heard about it from Mr. Mike (Fennell), I was very surprised, saying what other award is that, and then I really came to understand about it, but I really appreciated it a lot.
"This is just another motivational step for me," added the man who was recently voted the IAAF Male Athlete of the Year and Track & Field Magazine Athlete of the Year.
In presenting the award, Hamilton said Powell was unanimously voted as the top man.
"I am delighted to officially present this to you, Asafa," said Hamilton, who was accompanied by chairman of the Commonwealth Games Federation, Mike Fennell.
"Keep doing what you doing, man, you are making everybody proud and it is significant that you train here in Jamaica and can leave the others in your wake," he told Powell, who received the glassy trophy with a smile.
During 2006, Powell, who opened up with the Commonwealth Games 100m crown, also broke a few barriers on his way to being the top man over 100 metres in 2006.
Created History
Apart from equalling the world record twice, and his 12 sub-10-second times, which is the first time a sprinter has secured more than 10 in one season, Powell has also created history by becoming the first male to end a Golden League season unbeaten.
His times of 9.77 (twice), 9.85 (twice), 9.86 (twice), 9.89, 9.91, 9.95, 9.96, 9.98 and 9.99 were the best by far in any one season.
He also won the World Athletics Final 100m.
