Powell to run 400 in Sydney, vows to regain top spot

Former 100 metres world record holder Asafa Powell will run a 400 metres race in Sydney on Saturday as part of his attempt to regain the title as the world's fastest man.

Powell held the world record for the 100 metres from June 2005 until May last year with times of 9.77 and 9.74 seconds before being usurped by compatriot Usain Bolt (9.69).

Bolt went on to win the 100-200 double and combine with Powell in the 4x100 relay team to win three gold medals at last year's Olympics.

"The 400 metres is not my favourite or best event, and I don't really like it that much. It doesn't give me any ideas of switching events, it just helps me get stronger," Powell told reporters.

Powell opened his 2009 season last month in Jamaica, where he also ran a 400, and said he was hoping to use the longer race in Sydney to help him break 10 seconds in the 100 metres at a meeting back in Melbourne on March 5.

No-one had broken the 10-second barrier in Melbourne, Athletics Australia said. Powell's fastest time in Melbourne was the 10.03 he ran at the Melbourne Cricket Ground during the 2006 Commonwealth Games.

"It's possible. I'm in okay shape right now, it's very early in the season, but a sub-10 is very, very possible," said Powell.

"This is my third time coming here, I'd really love too."

Powell finished fifth behind Bolt at Beijing and he and coach Steve Francis were intent on ensuring he challenged his compatriot at this year's world athletics championships in Berlin.

"This year I just want to bounce back," Powell said. "It's a lot easier now being in second place, it gives you something to work for and I'm working hard to get back on top."