At just 22 years old (since last May 11), Pierre-Ambroise Bosse is already positioning himself among the world’s best in the 800m. The young Frenchman is progressing step by step and is aiming for the gold medal at the upcoming European Championships in Zurich (August 12-17). In Monaco this Friday, the goal is to take advantage of his current form to achieve a good time.
Nice Premium: A year ago, Pierre-Ambroise, you set your personal best in the 800m (1’43’’76) right here in Monaco. What are your feelings before returning to this track at Stade Louis-II?
Pierre-Ambroise Bosse: It’s always a pleasure to come back here, the setting is magnificent and the conditions are always excellent. I nickname this track “the magic track.” I have only run here once, but from the first steps, you know it’s conducive to very good performances. Running in France, for us French athletes, is always incredible. We are always well-received, it adds a bit of pressure but I consider it positive, it gives strength.
NP: This Friday, the 800m field is very competitive with Rudisha, Aman, Amos, Kaki, and others. How do you see this race?
PAB: These guys can be “beaten” in a race. Everything is really decided by a whisker at the finish. I’ll have to run cleverly, without getting jostled too much and avoiding falls. These races are so technical that the slightest mistake is detrimental.
NP: What are your sensations after transitioning from Paris to Reims?
PAB: My form is at 1000% (laughs). I am currently in the shape of my life, and it’s true!
NP: The French record for the 800m is still held by Mehdi Baala (1’43’’15 in 2002). With your current form and the times decreasing, does this achievement linger in a corner of your mind?
PAB: Of course, you think about it. This year I have 4 races left to break this record: Monaco, then Zurich (Diamond League), Rieti, and Brussels. I’ve decided to stop pressuring myself because it doesn’t work. I’m more of an easy-going person, so it will come when I don’t expect it.
NP: On August 15, the 800m final will take place at the Letzigrund in Zurich. What does this date mean to you?
PAB: I didn’t know the date precisely, but I am aware that this year’s goal is undoubtedly to bring home the gold. My entire physical, psychic, and mental preparation is focused on this objective, crossing the finish line at these European Championships in first place.
NP: You were European Junior and Under-23 champion. There’s still one more step to take…
PAB: I can’t imagine losing, it would hurt me. It’s up to me to find the keys not to be disappointed. The solution in Zurich will be to start fast, pass a good time at mid-race, and then we’ll see. Before that, I need to recover because I will be racing three times in three days, which is very tough.
NP: Everyone knows your very quirky personality: the French football team outfit in Saint-Denis, your post-race impressions in footballer style. Where does this relaxation come from?
PAB: I play sports without putting my life on the line in these races. I have a family and economic context that suits me perfectly, so I enjoy myself. Athletics is my passion, and I’ve been involved for a long time now. I like to laugh, I like people who make me laugh, and we need to give pleasure to people. That’s the goal, and then they give me back this energy when I’m on the track.
