By Timothy Jaikarran
Emmerson Campbell will be taking to the stage as he represents the Golden Arrowhead at the upcoming Central America and Caribbean Championships (CAC) 2021, which will be hosted in San Salvador, El Salvador, August 11-16, 2021.
In Campbell’s last outing at the CAC in 2019, he shockingly failed to place within the top six contenders in his category. A ‘minor technicality’ was identified as the reason, and Campbell vowed to return “bigger and better”. But then like a thief in the night, the COVID-19 pandemic struck and the competition was shelved. However, with vaccination drives and the situation looking much better Campbell is ready for action and has his eye on the prize. His no-surrender, no-retreat mentality has seen him push beyond his limits and to date produce one of his best packages as he is only weeks away from hitting the stage in El Salvador.
In a sit-down with Guyana Times Sport, Campbell was asked a series of questions on his preparation and what he believes must be done as the time draws near.
How do you feel preparing for the CAC?
I feel great. I’m blessed to be in this position to represent the flag again and things are very much on stream. My body is ready to go.
How would you say your preparation is coming?
My training, nutrition, cardio and rest have all exceeded expectations. I’m way ahead of schedule at four weeks out.
How is your preparation coming as compared to 2019?
For me the last time I simply didn’t bring the best package to the stage and the line-up was super competitive. You have to be on your A game to be on the CAC podium, since the best of the best compete there. So, I think this time around things will be different as my size and conditioning is way better than 2019.
How has the pandemic impacted your preparation?
Like everyone on this planet, the pandemic has impacted me and, therefore, my preparation, but gyms have been opened long enough time to get in stage shape. I’d say the pandemic probably was a blessing in disguise since it gave my body a year off to rest and recover without the grind of preparing for shows. Since 2014 I’ve been preparing for three to four shows a year. So I guess the rest was good to recharge and refocus.
How confident are you?
I’m super confident. As a two-time medallist at the event, I know what to expect. And from what I see in the mirror and the feedback I’ve gotten from trained eyes, I’m super confident of snaring the elusive gold.
Is your current body your best? What do you believe you have to work on as the CAC approaches and what do you want to say to your fans?
It’s hard to say at the moment as I think the 2016 and 2018 packages were comparable. I think I speak for not just me, but everyone on the team when I say, we are not going hoping for wins. We expect wins on show day. We are going for gold medals.
