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Powell launches Olympic Season with win Back To Main

NEW YORK: Asafa Powell won the 50m at the US Open indoor athletics meeting on Saturday, then predicted the powerful Jamaican sprint squad could sweep the 100m podium at the London Olympics.

“Yes, it is very possible,” Powell said after clocking 5.64sec to win the 50m at Madison Square Garden. Powell crossed the finish line in 5.64sec, edging compatriot Nesta Carter who was second in 5.67sec. American Trell Kimmons was third in 5.68, followed by compatriot Justin Gatlin in 5.71.

“Surely it (a Jamaican Olympic sweep) can be done,” said Powell, a former world record-holder whose career has been overshadowed by countryman Usain Bolt, with yet another Jamaican, Yohan Blake, rising to prominence last year and gaining the No. 1 world ranking over 100m.

“We have some amazing runners,” added Powell, who was making his first indoor appearance since 2004. “Nothing’s ever certain. Not even for Usain Bolt. To run this well this early in the season is very promising. I’m very fit right now. But I’m still not fast.”