Gatlin goes to school in Shanghai, E China

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Ahead of the upcoming IAAF Diamond League in Shanghai, one of the event’s prime attractions, US sprinter Justin Gatlin, visited a middle school in the Chinese metropolis on Thursday to teach the students a few techniques. Gatlin was joined by two of the most promising Chinese athletes, Xu Zhouzheng and Liang Jinsheng.

Wearing the school's athletic uniform, Justin Gatlin showed students the start position for sprinting on the track at Qibao Middle School in Minhang District. He demonstrated how to get the fastest speed using reverse thrust of the starting blocks.

“Track and field athletic community here in China is waking up, you see a lot of young athletes who are taking it more seriously, who want to make a career out of it. The sport is actually sparking some interest and excitement among young athletes who want to be better later on,” said the American sprinter while talking to the local reporters.

Chinese youngsters Xu and Liang, who will compete in the 4x100 meters relay race this weekend, demonstrated how to exchange the baton during a relay.

Justin Gatlin kneels in front of Jamaica's Usain Bolt after he beat Bolt in 2017. /VCG Photo ‍

After the small tutorial, three track and field athletes teamed up with the students for a mini 4x25 meters race. While talking to media Liang said: “Every student has potential, especially these young athletes who are already doing a good job among their peers. What they need to do now is to balance their study and practice and enjoy the sport.”

It was indeed a great experience for the students and a visibly thrilled Chen Peihao, a student of the school, remarked: “I was very excited to get this close with Justin and learn some practical skills from him because he is my idol. I will keep practicing.”

The annual athletics event is scheduled for Saturday night at Shanghai Stadium and some of the world's best track and field athletes, including Gatlin, Xu, and Liang, will take part in 16 disciplines.