Andre Lowe, Senior Staff Reporter

BIRMINGHAM, England:
With time ticking down towards the start of the Olympic Games in London, Jamaica's biggest rivals in track and field, the United States continued eager preparations with the hope of delivering something special in the England capital.

Several athletes turned up for this morning's open training session at the Alexander Stadium in Birmingham - 15 minutes from Jamaica's training base at the University of Birmingham.

The big names – Tyson Gay, Carmelita Jeter and Allyson Felix – were missing but Wallace Spearmon, Kerron Clement, Aries Merritt and Bianca Knight were among the group.

Veteran Lauren Williams, Trell Kimmons and Doc Patton were also among the 30 or so athletes, who went through several light drills in warm conditions – something that has been missing in this city over the past few days.

Team Manager Ken Brauman says his team is motivated to do well at the London Olympic Games and shared that the vibe in the camp was encouraging.

"Everyone is in good shape and looking forward to the games. Birmingham has been very kind to us and we are just trying to get everyone ready and keeping every one loose for what should be a special Olympic for us," Brauman told The Gleaner.

sports@gleanerjm.om