Malcolm has eyes on Britain's relay team

And that's why Christian Malcolm, who qualified for the 200m at this weekend's trials, wants to be in the final four.

At the weekend he was joined by fellow sprinters Adam Gemili and James Ellington in qualifying for the London Games and Malcolm, who at 33 is likely to be taking part in his last Olympics, said competition was strong for the relay team.

"The team could be a good mix of youth and experience which is needed to get a medal," he said. "Hopefully I can be one of those older ones."

On July 5 the selectors will decide who makes the GB relay team and then Malcolm, who is competing is in the squad for the 4x100m team at the European Championships in Helsinki this weekend, will find out whether he makes the side.

As for the others, he's particularly impressed with Gemili, an 18-year-old who exploded onto the scene just a few weeks ago when he became the second fastest European this year.

"I'd seen him and thought here's a kid with talent but you see a lot of kids with talent and you don't know whether they'll pursue it," said Malcolm.

"It's now down to whether he gets good training because he's got the head for the occasion. He's a down-to-earth kid and well-mannered."

The pair had a similar start in athletics. Malcolm had football trials as a youngster before opting for the track while Gemili, who has played at youth level for Chelsea and Dagenham and Redbridge, has had a tough choice in where his future lies.

"If he were to ask me I'd say look at your bank balance," joked Malcolm. "Sometimes I look at my bank balance and think maybe I should have done football.

"I'm just kidding. I love athletics and would never change it."

Before thinking about the relay, if he is selected, Malcolm first has the small matter of trying to outrun Usain Bolt in the 200m and pick up his first Olympic medal.

So would he rather the reigning champion was not lining up against him?

"No way. It's all about stepping up," said Malcolm, who has taken part in three Olympics before.

"When I retire I can say I've raced Michael Johnson, Maurice Greene, Usain Bolt and the list goes on.

"It's an honour to race these guys and something I will always remember."

Malcolm is supporting Links of London's Circle of 5 campaign. Go to linksoflondon.com/2012 for details.