Olympic legend John Regis tells skysports.com why he's taking on Tony Jarrett in London.
British Olympic legends go head-to-head for Aviva London Grand Prix
Two decades after his silver medal at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, British sprinter John Regis is as hungry for success as ever.
The 42-year-old is coming out of retirement on what he calls a 'one-time only deal' to face former team-mate Tony Jarrett as well as Jason Gardener and Iwan Thomas in a 4x100m relay at the Aviva London Grand Prix on Saturday, and he's promising fireworks.
"I think there's going to be a little bit of competitive spirit with Tony!" he told
skysports.com.
"If we're on the same leg, it could get ugly. I could be hitting him over the head with the baton if he starts getting away from me!
"Seriously, though, we've had our day in the sun and this is for a great cause. But obviously my team has to win."
Good cause
Despite his desire for bragging rights, Regis is clearly more concerned about the cause in question.
He's running for Macmillan Cancer Support alongside supporters of the charity, Aviva staff and, of course, his fellow Olympic heroes, and he insists that he would not be involved for any other reason.
"They do a lot of work helping people get through the trials and tribulations of cancer and help raise awareness," he said.
"It's something that is close to me because I've had people affected by cancer and, I've got to be honest, to be able to help a charity like this that can help people through the really hard times is the only reason you would ever see me come out of retirement."
But he must be excited about getting back out on the track? Or perhaps not; "I'd use that word loosely! No, I'm actually looking forward to it.
"I've done a bit of training - don't tell anybody! - and so standing in front of a capacity house at Crystal Palace, which is somewhere I used to love to perform, and having the crowd cheer, and hopefully not laugh, is really going to feel good."
The battle between Regis and Jarrett will certainly appeal to those nostalgic over the long-gone golden age of British athletics, but the Aviva London Grand Prix offers much more besides.
Tyson Gay and Asafa Powell are among the major sprint stars to be taking part on Friday, but Regis believes there is one man who stands out above all the other attractions.
Complete phenomenon
"I'm really looking forward to seeing Usain Bolt," he said.
"The guy is a complete phenomenon. He has taken the world of track and field by the scruff of the neck.
"He's dominated since the Olympic Games when everyone looked in awe at his unbelievable performances.
"He's an absolute superstar in the making and I know the British public is going to absolutely enjoy every stride of his race."
The Aviva Macmillan charity race takes place at 1.45pm on Saturday July 25 at Crystal Palace Athletics Stadium
