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Posted on: Wednesday, August 11, 2004

Nakanelua returns to run for American Samoa

By Ann Miller
Advertiser Staff Writer

Kamehameha graduate Kelsey Nakanelua will represent American Samoa at his second straight Olympiad. At 37, Nakanelua figures he is probably the oldest male sprinter.

Kelsey Nakanelua

Son Kelsey Jr., 11, is closer in age to some of his opposition in the 100 meters.

"I was semi-retired in 2000 and 2001," Nakanelua said. "Then I talked to the people in Samoa and they said we have no one to represent us.

"I get to go to Athens. I've been to Fiji and Paris and will probably go to Australia (after the Olympics). It's pretty good benefits."

Nakanelua's best time is 10.59, which he believes he can beat despite his age, a year of nagging injuries and a late call to the starting line: Nakanelua, whose grandfather was a quarter Samoan, didn't find out he was going to Athens until a few days before the July 21 deadline.

"The first time you go to the Olympics you are awestruck," he said. "By the number of people and magnitude of the events. You don't realize it's as big as it is. Then you get a little nervous. Your chances of winning are slim to none so you want to perform well.

"I won't be as awestruck this time."
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