WITH A four year countdown to the Commonwealth Games almost complete, WSEH sprint hurdler Lawrence Clarke is out to ensure an off-colour performance at the Sainsbury’s Glasgow Grand Prix is not a sign of things to come.

Clarke was afforded a sneak peak of the Glasgow 2014 venue at a transformed Hampden Park. However it was not exactly love at first sight as he failed to reach the 110m hurdles final, clocking 13.54 seconds to finish his heat in sixth place.

But having run four faster times already this year, Clarke retains hope that he can rediscover his best form in time to improve on the Commonwealth bronze medal he won as part of an English one-two-three at Delhi 2010.

“The Commonwealths are so important to me. It’s been my target for four years,” said Clarke, who hopes to compete throughout the Summer Series events proudly backed by long-term supporter Sainsbury’s.

“The London 2012 Olympics came a bit soon, as did the Delhi 2010 Commonwealth Games really, although I managed to pick up a medal there somehow.

“Looking at the way people are running it’s going to be an amazing competition. I think there’s scope to make the final, and hopefully if I do make the I can improve a bit.

“The podium is the hope, but recently I’ve been a bit unwell. I thought I was over it but it came back with a vengeance in that race.

“I felt very light-headed. I don’t know if that was just nerves. It was below average that’s for sure. I should’ve run a lot quicker but I hit a hurdle.” Sainsbury’s is proud to support British Athletics through the Summer Series events and is committed to helping young people lead healthier, more active lifestyles. For more information visit www.sainsburys.co.uk/legacy **SEE Friday's Observer for all the latest sports news and action including a full Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games preview** **FOLLOW the Observer on Twitter at @Observer_sports**