DANNY Talbot believes that his Olympics debut in London four years ago will stand him in good stead in Rio – even though it ended in disaster, writes KEVIN FAHEY.

Then only 21, the Trowbridge Tornado was handed a harsh introduction to the full spotlight of the media glare as he and teenager Adam Gemili managed to mess up the final hand-over, with the latter taking the baton outside the changeover zone resulting in the British squad being disqualified.

It was the fourth time in five Olympics that the Brits have been disqualified – the only exception being the gold-medal winning quartet from Athens in 2004 – and that led to some harsh words for the relay men as it seemed like a good medal opportunity had been thrown away.

But Talbot, who will be racing the 200m in Rio and is again in the squad for the relay, said there was no lasting damage from the event.

“I have since spoken to Adam about it and we both agreed that we were both too young to appreciate it at the time,” said Talbot.

“Of course we were heartbroken at the time but it helped that both Adam and I were so young and had another chance. It probably hurt the other two guys more (Dwain Chambers and Christian Malcolm) as it was their last Olympics.

“I have had a lot of experience since London and I am different athlete and person now. I have grown up a lot and I am pleased to have come out a better athlete from that experience.

“I think I was relatively mature for my age when I competed in London but I probably didn’t appreciate what I was doing and it just seemed like another competition.

“I think it all came too quick and easy back then. Now that I have qualified for Rio I fully realise that other people know it is an amazing achievement.”

But the achievement for Talbot won’t mean anything if he doesn’t deliver what he expects on the track; just taking part won’t be enough.

“I think the minimum aim is to make the semi finals,” added Talbot.

“Once I am there then I know that the final is within my capability but I will need a big race and run 20.0/20.1 something to make it.

“But I have great belief in the training I have been doing. I have been competitive in every race and also won a championship medal (a bronze at the European Championships).

“Everything this year has been geared towards Rio and I don’t want to come back home with any regrets.”