'I was like a project for him' — Asafa Powell gives insight on how 'genius' coach Stephen Francis prepares his athletes

Jamaican sprint legend known as the «sub-10 king,» has offered fans an inside look into the coaching methods of Stephen Francis, the mastermind behind the MVP Track Club. 

Powell credits Francis for transforming him into one of the most consistent sprinters in history, with a record 97 sub-10-second 100-meter races.

Francis, celebrated for turning athletes like ,, and rising star into global track icons, applied a unique approach to Powell’s development. 

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Reflecting on his early days, Powell shared how his coach meticulously studied sprinting techniques and tailored a strategy to help him achieve greatness.

In an interview on Justin Gatlin’s podcast, Powell described how Francis introduced him to the techniques of sprinting legends. 

“My coach would have videos,” Powell said. “I think I was a serious project for him. He used to have videos, and in them were Francis Obikwelu as a junior, Frankie Fredericks, Maurice Greene, and Linford Christie. These are the guys he had me watching.”

Powell explained how Francis blended elements from these athletes’ styles to craft a technique uniquely suited to him.

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 “Christian Malcolm as well. I think he brought all these guys together and created a technique he wanted to see out of me. I think that is what he did. Every day, we would watch videos of these guys. They are the ones I grew up watching. I watched their techniques, and I think that is what created a sub-10 king.”

Justin Gatlin, a fellow sprinting legend, praised Powell’s form, acknowledging its influence on his own career. 

“By far, you had the best form in track and field history. It was flawless,” Gatlin said. “You were watching them; I was watching you because I realized I could not have any wasted movement. I had to make sure I tried to be perfect.”

Powell’s entry into track and field was almost accidental. Born to William and Cislyn Powell, he initially had no interest in the sport and only began paying attention after watching his brother, Donovan, compete at the Sydney Olympics in 2000. Powell joined the MVP Track Club in 2001 under Francis’ guidance, where his potential quickly surfaced.

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In 2002, Powell clocked 10.12 seconds, followed by 10.02 in 2003. That same year, he claimed victory in the 60m at the Millrose Games but faced disappointment after being disqualified in the semi-finals of the World Championships in Paris.

His breakthrough came in 2004, when he broke the 10-second barrier for the first time, running 9.99 seconds at GC Foster College in Spanish Town, Jamaica. 

This marked the beginning of a career that included a historic bronze medal in the 100 meters at the 2009 World Championships, where Usain Bolt shattered the world record with 9.58 seconds.

Stephen Francis is renowned for his ability to preserve athletes and prime them for major competitions. Powell’s account sheds light on how the coach’s attention to detail and focus on technique played a pivotal role in building his career.

Although Powell’s medal collection may not rival those of other sprinting greats, his legacy as the most consistent sub-10 sprinter remains unchallenged. His story is a testament to the value of precision, preparation, and perseverance in the world of athletics.

“It was not just about running fast; it was about running perfectly,” Powell concluded. “That’s what made the difference.”