Michael East

So when you put the kick in and the other runners go past you, it's game over!

I first discovered my turn of pace when I was playing football as a kid.

It probably won't sink in until I've retired from running but I'm a much better athlete than two years ago.

Deciding on when to kick is crucial and depends on how the race is unfolding.

If it's a slow race you have to be on your guard. You have to be patient, but I prefer that.

Stepping up a gear during any race is not an easy thing to do.

You have to have your wits about you and think quickly on your feet.

If you go too soon, you can come unstuck with 50m left when the guys are going past you.

Winning Commonwealth gold was just totally unbelievable.

I could produce spurts of speed and after taking up athletics I found myself running quite quickly over 400m.

It is a natural gift I was born with but it's something I've had to nurture in training.

If you see swarms of guys coming around you, you have to try and avoid being stuck on the kerb.