TRURO, N.S. — Anthony James will soon be running for his country.
The Truro track athlete is a member of Team Canada and is heading to the United Arab Emirates in March to compete in the Special Olympics World Games.
“It’s going to be fun to race against fast people I’ve never seen before,” he said. “When I got the message about going I was so excited I couldn’t stay still.”
The 25-year-old said the best part is being chosen to represent Canada, something he’s wanted to do since he was in Grade 9.
One of the things that qualified James for the world event was his strong showing at Nationals last summer, when he won five medals – one gold, two silver and two bronze.
He’s among 109 Canadian athletes who will be competing in Abu Dhabi, where the average daytime temperature in March is 23 C, with highs of 29 C.
“There’s no preparation for the heat; I’ll take it as it comes,” he said.
“I’ll watch a lot of other competitions when I’m there. I want to meet other people. I want to meet Usain Bolt if he shows up. He’s my favourite track athlete.”
James will leave Nova Scotia March 5 to fly to Toronto, where he’ll meet up with other Canadian athletes before taking a 13-hour flight to the UAE.
After arrival, he will be involved with the Host Town program for four days, training, touring, and learning about the UAE’s culture.
Opening Ceremonies take place March 14, and James will compete in 100m and 200m sprints March 17 through 20.
“I think he will win a medal,” said Janice Milton, his Special Olympics SO Cobequid, Team NS, and Team Canada training coach. “He’s got a fire in him when he competes.
“I’m not going with him, but it’ll be streamed and some networks might cover it. I’ll be watching and cheering for him.”
His coach for the world event is from Newfoundland. He met her at training camp and feels positive about working with her.
“This is awesome,” said James. “The important thing is to do my best and have fun, but I want to bring one medal home – any colour.”
He will be one of 7,000 athletes from 177 countries participating in the world games.
