Reminiscing on his world record jump in Salamanca (Spain) on September 8 in 1993, the Cuban ace said: “That day will remain etched in my memory for ever.”

Currently managing Cuban athletes — he is the manager of the athletics team — Sotomayor was a bit disappointed with the current lot of high jumpers who are not as determined as athletes of his days. “It’s simple. There is lack of determination,” he said.

While admitting that the American domination was lessening since Athens, the Cuban said it was something to do with the progress other have made. “In America and even in Cuba the athletes have held their positions at the top, but the dwindling of medals in Olympics by these countries is because others have progressed by leaps and bounds. I think that is a good sign.”

On his last appearance in Sydney, he said since he was under suspension (for cocaine use) he couldn’t train in 1999. “But my base was strong enough to carry me through in Sydney, though I would have been happier to end my career with a gold,” he said.

Giving an insight into Cuban sports, Sotomayor said the government had a system and young kids get assimilated into it: “There is determination and good infrastructure and government support. That should explain why we are doing well .”

Reminding the Indian-Cuban connection (IABF has a Cuban coach), Sotomayor said: “we can even offer you an athletics coach.”