CLERMONT, FLA – David Verburg knew it was only a matter of time.

The world-class sprinter’s patience was tested for weeks waiting a word from the International Olympic Committee.

“As soon as you saw FIFIA, NFL, NBA, you know everything cancelling their season,” Verburg said. “We knew it was just a matter of time before the Olympics follow suit.”

Tokyo 2020 was put on hold for one year. That decision was made two weeks after the majority of professional sports leagues canceled or postponed their seasons.

“The fact that it took so long for us was a little frustrating for us as athletes because everything is so scheduled. We need to know what we need to do as far as moving forward.”

Prior to the decision, training facilities for Olympic athletes were shutdown leaving them forced to train for games without necessary access.

“Everything that we live off of for our sports, any athlete really, fields gyms courts, it’s all closed off.”

Verburg, who lives and trains in Clermont, recalls he had to take extreme measures once access was restricted. Now with a plan in place, he can resume a modified workout routine from home.

Exercise is the latest hurdle Verburg is overcoming. Along with the Olmypics, professional meets like the Penn Relays were cancelled.

“You’re out of work because there are no races this year,” Verburg said. “What do you do now?”

Now it’s training for a delayed summer games. With time, Verburg thinks the product will look solid.

“I think you’re going to see great times, great performances because of the magnitude of these games. It’s going to be a monumental games we’re going to see in 2021.”