Usain Bolt races this weekend with an eye on world championships

A string of injuries and sub-par performances have apparently done little to dim Usain Bolt’s confidence heading into the world championships next month.

“I am not going there to lose,” the Jamaican sprinter said at a news conference on Thursday. “I always ensure I am ready for championships.”

Bolt spoke to reporters before a Diamond League meet at London’s Olympic stadium, where he won gold in the 100 meters, 200 meters and 400-meter relay during the 2012 Summer Games.

American sprinter Justin Gatlin has put pressure on Bolt from afar, looking impressive of late. With six gold medals and numerous world titles on his resume, Bolt needs to regain form quickly.

This weekend, he will compete in the 100 meters, testing a leg injury that had forced him to skip the past month of competition. He called London an important test for the championships in China, which are scheduled to begin Aug. 22.

“I have worked hard in training so we will see how it is,” he said of the injury. “I’m very excited for Beijing and a little bit nervous.”