ANDY’S HAD A SHREWD AWAKENING

WORLD ATHLETICS Scot is fast learner

ANDY BUTCHART has been cashing in on his Olympics heroics by becoming a businessman. The 25-year-old, who was sixth in Rio, has been tipped as an outside bet for a 5,000 metres medal ahead of tonight’s semi after proving to be one of the toughest nuts to crack on the track. That’s meant invites to compete all over the world – plus a lucrative shoe deal with New Balance – just two years after Butchart gambled on quitting his part-time job at Gleneagles to commit to the sport.

He said: “When you start making money, people want to help you out because they can make money off you. If they give you advice, they want a cut.

“I’ve been pretty careful who I let in. That’s something I’ve had to learn really fast within the past year. I have a good team now.

“I understand now athletics is a business, not a game. That’s how it is but I like it.”

Butchart, left, would boost his profile even further if he stops legend Mo Farah from claiming double gold.

He said: “There must be a way to beat Mo but no one has worked it out yet. Maybe he’ll have to have an off-day.”

Meanwhile Farah says having the inside track on his African rivals can help add to 5000m glory to his 10000m gong and end his glittering career on a high.

He said: “Experience is everything. If you’ve been in a situation before it’s easier and will help me massively.” LENNIE WAITE is ready to make up for her Rio foot injury agony tonight.

The 31-year-old was crocked at the Olympics but has a second shot in tonight’s 3000 metres steeplechase heats.

She said: “When I think about Rio, it’s all about the injury. This time I’d love to run a PB in the first round.”