Fatherhood ‘a different type of feeling’ for De Grasse

He’s enjoyed the thrill of winning an Olympic medal and dealt with the frustration of battling through injury, but Andre De Grasse says becoming a father is a totally new experience.

De Grasse’s girlfriend Nia Ali gave birth to a girl Saturday in Philadelphia. The couple have named the child Yuri.

“It’s a different type of feeling,” De Grasse said Monday. “It’s a new step into becoming a man. It’s a new chapter in my life. It’s going to be a great ride. I’m looking forward to enjoying it.”

De Grasse is in Vancouver to compete at the Harry Jerome International Track Classic. He will run the 100 metres Tuesday night and on the 4x100 relay Wednesday. Both events are part of the Jerome meet’s China-Canada Sprint Challenge.

Escaping to the West Coast has allowed the triple-Olympic medallist to catch up on some rest.

“It’s been a little bit no sleep,” De Grasse chuckled. “I get a chance to get away a little bit. I’m in the hotel and get a little sleep.”

De Grasse is looking to get his season back on track after a couple of disappointing Diamond League performances.

The 23-year-old from Markham, Ont., said he finally feels healthy after recovering from a Grade 2 hamstring strain which forced him out of last year’s world track and field championships.