Reflections of a stormy petrel

The 200 metre world record is the most awesome object in athletics. In thirty years, it has only been broken three times. In 1978, I think, Pietro Mennea broke it in Mexico City. It then stood until 1996 and the Atlanta Olympics, when Michael Johnson broke it with one of the most awesome runs I ever saw. And Johnson's record has stood until now - when the Bolt from the blue tore into it in spite of a headwind that would particularly have hampered his tall and upright frame. And again, as in Atlanta 1996... a performance that nobody who saw it will ever forget.

And the crowd all rose and sang Happy Birthday to him. Because, as it happens, his birthday is tomorrow! What a way to celebrate.