The world held its breath. The stadium roared with excitement as the eight fastest men on the planet settled into their blocks for the most anticipated race of the 2012 London Olympics. Among them was Yohan Blake, the “Beast,” the young Jamaican sprinter who had beaten Usain Bolt at the Jamaican trials. But now, it was the biggest stage of all.

To his right, Bolt crouched low, his long limbs coiled like a spring. To his left, Tyson Gay adjusted his stance, determination etched on his face. Justin Gatlin, the American powerhouse, clenched his jaw. Asafa Powell, another Jamaican legend, exhaled deeply.

Blake could feel the eyes of the world watching, waiting for history to unfold.

“On your marks.”

Blake took his position. His heart pounded, but his mind was calm. He had trained for this. He had beaten Bolt before. He could do it again.

“Set"

The silence was deafening. Time slowed. Then—

BANG!

They exploded from the blocks. Blake reacted instantly, his lightning start putting him ahead. Bolt stumbled ever so slightly but quickly regained speed. Gatlin was right there. The race was tight.