Jamaica's Usain Bolt winning the 200m at Crystal Palace.

BEIJING, China (CMC):

Norman Peart, agent for Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt, has backed the decision made by his coach Glen Mills to allow the sprinter to chase the sprint double at the 29th Olympiad.

Peart, a mentor to Bolt since his high school career, said the 100 metres world-record holder had matured significantly over the last few months and was well placed to join the small, elite group of those who have won the 100 metres and 200 metres crowns.

"Since breaking the 100 metres world record, Bolt considered himself in a very good position to do both," Peart told CMC Sports in an interview.

"After the world record (in New York), his performances in both events have been very good and very motivating."

Most coveted feats

Winning the double at any major championships has been rare and completing the feat at an Olympic Games is one of the most coveted accomplishments in track and field.

Only a few have managed to achieve this, with American legend Carl Lewis being the last sprinter to do so 24 years ago in Los Angeles.

Based on current form, Bolt is the overwhelming favourite for both events, but will have the likes of countryman and former world-record holder Asafa Powell and American world champion Tyson Gay to fend off.

Optimistic

Peart said he was optimistic about the Jamaican's chances.

"Bolt thinks that this Olympics is his to shine. The Olympic Games come every four years and he might not have the same success then as he hopes to have in this one," he stressed.

The 21-year old Bolt opens his Olympic campaign on August 15 with the first round of the 100 metres dash.