Athletics: Top high jumper's focus on Olympic redemption

Top New Zealand high jumper Glenn Howard has recovered from his Olympic Games nightmare and has his sights set on "redemption at Athens."

Howard had his first jump since the disappointment of Sydney at the national track and field championships in Hastings last weekend, and left no doubt that he is still the best by far in New Zealand.

His 2.10m clearance was noteworthy, considering he had no proper preparation. The Auckland-based, former Canterbury athlete said that after jumping only 2.15m at the Olympics he was so upset that he considered retirement and the possibility of switching to his other sporting love - basketball.

"I thought about basketball, but in high jumping you can blame only yourself," Howard said.

"I've got something to prove. I've still got some good years left in me."

Howard, aged 24, won selection for the Olympics with a brilliant New Zealand record leap of 2.30m last March.

"I am confident I can go higher. When you are fit you can fly," he said.

His history of injuries remains a hurdle. His back is held together by pieces of wire, an injured right foot - which upset his Olympics quest - is still strapped as a precaution, and he has an injury to his right knee which has yet to be sorted out.

"I shouldn't be jumping at all. I only competed because it was the nationals," he said. "Winning the national title means something to me."

Howard said he intended to have only one jump, win the title, and pull out. The title was his after his opening 2.05m clearance, but then his competitive instincts took over. He only quit after two attempts at 2.15m.

Howard continues to have belief in his ability to compete against the best at the Olympics. "On my day, I could beat most of those guys."

He is not available for the world championships in Edmonton in August, but as soon as he gets his knee fixed up he will be into a solid winter buildup with the aim of winning a medal at the Commonwealth Games in Manchester next year.

The main focus, however, is already on the next Olympics, in Athens, where Howard believes he can get among the medals.

- NZPA