The Editor, Sir:

As I watched the performances of our Olympic team, I failed to realise what was happening to me until my wife walked over and hugged me. Tears were streaming down my face without me being aware of it.

Many years ago, I too had dreams of competing on that level. Any sadness I felt at not seeing my dreams come through have been wiped away by the performance of our young people.

To Usain Bolt I say, congratulations young man for a job well done. To Asafa Powell, I say hold your head high and never stop trying. You have a talent that's God-given. Never give up.

A Usain Bolt comes along, maybe, once every 100 years. I have no doubt that the next one will also be produced by my beloved island nation. I have not stopped smiling for over a week, and I am sure the joy I feel will maintain my smile for a very long time.

I am, etc.,

ANTHONY MATTHEWS

percival111@aol.com

Miami, Florida