OLYMPIC gold medallist Darren Campbell was quick out of the blocks after his World Championship media duties to fly into the North East to give Tyneside youngsters some final training hints before they embark on their trip to Manchester for the final of the Reebok-supported Street Athletics. Campbell was at Lightfoot Sports Centre in the East End of Newcastle, and warmed to the task of delivering advice to young athletes who have made their way through to represent Newcastle-Gateshead at the final. The big event will be staged under the backdrop of Manchester Town Hall on September 15 against other teams from Birmingham, Folkestone, Sheffield, Liverpool, Bristol, London and the host city. The dozen or so teenagers, none of whom had any experience of athletics before taking part in the preliminary round, which was held on the Quayside, benefited enormously from Campbell’s input, which was delivered with passion and wit. Campbell is in no doubt that there are many youngsters here in the North East who have the talent to break into athletics and forge a happy and enjoyable career. “I’ve been doing these sessions, together with Linford Christie, up and down the country, and I can honestly say there are youngsters out there who are more than able to make it into athletics,” said Campbell. “I’ve been more than impressed, not only here on Tyneside, but everywhere I’ve been, with the enthusiasm shown by everyone. “Let’s not forget, these kids aren’t from a club-based background so they haven’t been subjected to the discipline that’s required, but that doesn’t mean that they can’t take part and have some fun. “One of the reasons these kids haven’t given athletics a go is possibly they think that the sport isn’t attractive. “But I can assure them athletics is very rewarding at whatever level they are at. “Yes, not everyone can make it on to the podium at the Olympics like me,” he added with a wry smile. “But that’s not what athletics is all about. “It’s about being positive, having fun and mixing with other people on a stage compatible to everyone. “Reebok has given these kids the opportunity to move in that direction and perhaps join clubs in the future. “I know that we have a huge number of raw youngsters, who have the talent to make it in athletics. “Yes, when this series is over it will be up to them to move on to the next stage. I really hope they do.” After the training session, which the smiles on the youngsters faces told how enjoyable it all was, Campbell broke away to praise the GB team’s performance in the World Championships. And while many pundits were playing down the British accomplishments, Campbell thought there were many positives to take away from the Championships. “I was more than happy, not only with the number of medals the team won, but by the overall performances generally. “We had a very young team in Osaka. We exceeded expectations so I think we have created a very sound foundation for the future. “We won five medals in Osaka then we should win at least five in Beijing in 12 months time when conditions will be very similar. The same athletes will be there, so you can see where I’m coming from.” | 
