10 Days to go to Valencia - Mutola eyes gold medal number 8

Mutola in the Palau Velòdromo Lluís Puig in Valencia (Julio Fontán)

Monte Carlo - As the 12th edition of the IAAF World Indoor Championships approaches, Maria Mutola, the most decorated athlete in the history of this competition has set her training base in Valencia since last 12 February in her build-up towards what could be her 8th World Indoor gold medal.

“Being in the venue of this major event with plenty of time is a way of putting pressure on my shoulders,” says Mutola upon her arrival in this Mediterranean Spanish city.

The 800m living legend has already no less than seven World titles on the boards under her belt but, already 35 years of age, she is still confident of increasing her stunning tally.

“My training is going well, I have managed to dip under 2:00 twice this indoor season, have won my three outings (Stuttgart, Karlsruhe and Stockholm) and look forward to competing in Valencia aiming for what would be my eighth crown.”

Asked whether she would sign for a silver medal Mutola is adamant...