Mikel Thomas is savouring the opportunity to pursue a Masters in Sports Management at the International Academy of Sport Science and Technology (AISTS) in Lausanne, Switzerland.

Describing the course as the “number one sports management programme in the world”, Thomas said it has given him a deeper understanding of the world of sport. The three-time Olympian has been able to work with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as well as international federations.

Thomas said he is the first person from T&T to do the AISTS Masters programme, and is hopeful he will not be the last. The 2015 Pan American Games men’s 110 metres hurdles silver medallist has been able to connect his thesis project with sport in T&T, and expects his research to serve as a catalyst “to ensure a brighter future for generations to come”.

Thomas, though, continues to face financial challenges. The 32-year-old sprint hurdler requires US$8,000 to complete the course. He said he has been praying “the right support comes, sees my commitment and work, and will invest”.

Thomas recently returned to Switzerland, after visiting his mother in Florida, USA. The Maloney athlete spoke to the Express about his trip to Florida, and the challenges of being an elite athlete during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“With the lockdowns, I decided to leave for Florida to be closer to family in this uncertainty. But I know God opened a door for me and I have to finish strong.

“Covid shut everything down, every earning opportunity I had. And I was so far from home that anything that I did have was gone in order to survive.

“I try my best to be resourceful and creative but to be honest it’s been a struggle when you have to do it alone. I’m not in a training group and don’t have a coach. I’ve proven myself in the past but it’s one of the hardest tests. Covid forced everyone to stop and reflect. And I know I can’t do it alone. That’s one of my greatest lessons from all of this.

“Restrictions have eased some, but I’m so far in the hole I have to address needs. And when I was in Florida, the tensions and health concerns in the United States didn’t make it better. It’s good to be outside but I had to constantly look over my back to make sure I’m not viewed as a threat when I’m working out alone. It’s mentally exhausting. I can do everything my body needs, but my mind and spirit at times are so drained.

“It would have been better if the Olympics was this year. But we must adapt and overcome. It’s how you view it. I will have to choose to use the postponement to 2021 in my favour.

“I just want to do what God has called me to, and finish strong. I’ve done the impossible several times, so I know how good God has been in my life. I’m not supported, so I honestly have to count the cost knowing what it takes not just to make a team, but the final or the podium. You can’t do that overnight or alone. By grace, if the support comes I’ve already shown what I can do. The goal would be the same: no limits and rewrite the record books.

“I don’t want to be a product of the brain drain. We have so much talent and resources in Trinidad and Tobago and I just want us to come together, realise our strength and support our own as they take on the world. From the track, classroom, or boardroom. I’ve done all and hope to continue, but I can’t do it all alone.”