Milan, 15 September (LaPresse/Ap) – "When I was competing, I was focused on crossing the finish line. Now that I've retired, it's a great feeling to know that I'm the benchmark if you want to be the best, if you want to be a legend. I wanted to set high standards and I succeeded. I'm happy about that." So said the legendary Usain Bolt, speaking to the media on the sidelines of the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, where he watched from the stands as his Jamaican compatriot Oblique Seville triumphed in the 100 metres. Eight years after his retirement, no one has come close to his times or his presence. The numbers tell part of the story: eight Olympic gold medals. Eleven gold medals at the World Championships. Three world records – 9.58 seconds in the 100 metres, 19.19 in the 200 metres and 36.84 in the 4×100 metres relay – still standing. When asked why this is the case, despite a world where shoe and track technology gives runners a greater boost than 15 years ago, Bolt said: ‘Do you really want the answer? We were simply more talented.’