Kratochvílová set the world record on 26 July 1983 in Munich when, even at the age of 32, she ran a time of 1:53.28.

“There will be no pressure on Caster to try and better her (Kratochvílová’s) record in the foreseeable future. We are very satisfied with the wonderful progress she has made since becoming a Tukkie at the beginning of the year and the world record will only come into her sight much later,” said Michael.

Michael knows too well that on Caster’s return to South Africa from the 12th IAAF World Championships in Berlin, she will first have to get used to being a world champion and as such also public property.

“It is fortunate that Caster is mentally matured far beyond her years. She will quickly adapt to her new status and also understand why bettering the world record is to be left for later. Our immediate aim is rather to go for gold medals at the Commonwealth and Africa Games next year. I will not want her to go faster than 1:55,” added Michael.

He has no doubt that Caster will become the new record holder, but the timing thereof is very important.

“The 2012 Olympic Games will be the ideal setting for rewriting history. To set a new world record at the biggest sporting event in the world is the absolute pinnacle.”