London 2012: Why Yohan Blake Will Shine in the 100 and 200 Meters

This is certainly one of the bigger storylines not regarding Team USA as we inch closer and closer to the opening ceremonies of London 2012. 

Yohan Blake defeated phenom Usain Bolt twice at the Jamaican Olympic trials and could be the favorite in the 100 and 200 meter events.  

This article will take a look at three reasons why I believe Yohan Blake will shine in the 100 and 200 meter races. Expect Blake to be a household name by this time next month. 

We are just 12 short days away from the Olympics and what better time than to read up on the athletes who will be making all the headlines in the coming weeks. 

Hit me up on Twitter, @JoeFitz1014. Let me know your thoughts!

Momentum

Yohan Blake has all the momentum in the world entering London 2012, as he defeated Bolt twice at the Jamaican trials in the 100 and 200 meter events. 

That could play a huge role in London, as Bolt's training partner is poised to burst onto the scene and become one of the stars of these Games. 

Blake, nicknamed "The Beast", has made Bolt look human in recent weeks. Sure, Bolt's hamstring may have played a role, but that shouldn't take away from the already impressive feats of "The Beast."

His critics continue to bring up the idea that the bright lights of the Olympics may get to him, but momentum could prove to be a game-changer.

The race is on, folks.  

Usain Bolt's Hamstring

On the surface, everything seems all good in Bolt's camp. 

His agent has calmed some fears of his bothersome hamstring, but you have to wonder if it was done just to stop the constant questions about it. 

Bum hammies are never good news for runners, and it has certainly affected Bolt in some of his recent races. 

The hamstring will certainly bear watching as we approach the London games and the training partners duel head to head in the 100 and 200 meters. 

Jamaican Pride

Yes, it's cliche, but don't underestimate what representing one's country can mean to an athlete. 

For an Olympic athlete, there is nothing more powerful than standing on the podium, medal in hand and sweat dripping from your brow as your country's national anthem plays over the stadium speakers. 

For runners, it often times also means taking a victory lap with the flag draped over your back. 

Yohan Blake will have all eyes on him as he tries to truly unseat Usain Bolt as the world's fastest man.

What better way for Blake to silence his critics than by capturing the gold on the world's biggest stage with millions watching? 

Those are the memories that last a lifetime.