Ato gives $50,000 to Newtown Boys

Four-time Olympic medallist Ato Boldon yesterday donated $50,000 to his alma mater, Newtown Boys Primary School at Toyota’s offices in Barataria. He also spoke to a small gathering about the upcoming 2004 Olympic Games in Athens. Toyota have been in support of many sports associations and individuals and are proud to be associated with Boldon, who has been affiliated with the company since 1996. Together the pair has been a great source of support to each other according to Nicholas McDonald, sales and marketing manager, Toyota Trinidad and Tobago Limited.

At the Olympics, Boldon will compete in the 200 metres, which he prefers running, as he bids for his first Olympic gold medal. And despite murmurs about his decision, Boldon gave the assurance that he has been taught to pay little mind to criticism. Boldon drew reference to the many calls for the resignation of West Indies captain Brian Lara weeks before he reclaimed the Test cricket record for the most runs in an innings which he accomplished against England. In response to questions of his athletic future after the summer games, Boldon revealed that Athens may be his last Olympiad. He reminded those present that while in his prime he stated that when the younger generation show themselves able to the task he will see it first to step down.

Boldon waxed philosophical and advised Trinidad and Tobago’s younger Olympians to enjoy the moment and to compete within their natural constraints at the summer Olympiad. He said there was nothing to hamper them as they have all proved themselves up to the challenge and they have earned his confidence. The career athlete scoffed at the idea of leaving athletics and said his next career is going to choose him.