Gatlin getting back in groove after 4-year ban

Gatlin getting back in groove after 4-year ban

Credit: AFP/Getty Images

US athlete Justin Gatlin (L) and French athlet Christophe Lemaitre (R) compete in the men's 100m race during the 7th edition of the Decanation Meeting at the Charles Ehrmann stadium on September 18, 2011 in Nice. Lemaitre won the race. AFP PHOTO VALERY HACHE (Photo credit should read VALERY HACHE/AFP/Getty Images)

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by Associated Press

kgw.com

Posted on April 18, 2012 at 1:56 PM

The Justin Gatlin who tore down the track last season was more concerned with fitting in than standing out.

Once among the fastest men on the planet, Gatlin kept a rather low and modest profile as he eased his way back into the world of sprinting after a four-year doping ban.

Don't make waves. Be polite. Flash the fans a gracious -- and contrite -- grin as he worked his way back up to speed.

Now, that easygoing demeanor has taken a back seat to his competitive nature.

With the 2012 London Games right around the corner, it's show time.

And Gatlin's quite eager to stand out once again -- just like he did at the 2004 Athens Olympics, when he surged by the 100-meter field to capture gold.

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