World sprint double record holder, Usain Bolt believes American Tyson Gay's impressive run of 19.58 at the Reebok Grand Prix last weekend sets the table for what he believes will be a very interesting season.

"I was not surprised, because Tyson is a very determined competitor and he showed that he is one of the best athletes in the world," Bolt told journalist at the launch of the Racers Track Club on Tuesday night.

Gay's time was the third fastest time ever, only bettered by Bolt's world record run of 19.30 at the Beijing Olympics, and countryman Michael Johnson's time of 19.32.

"It's going to be an interesting season and Tyson has kicked it off well," Bolt said. "I am looking forward to that showdown," he added.

Last summer in Beijing, the sprinter stunned the world with record runs of 9.69 and 19.30 in the 100 and 200 metres, respectively. However, according to Bolt, that is now ancient history and he will have to begin from scratch in a new season. Despite admitting that it may be harder this time around, Bolt is again ready to prove his worth.

"It's always going to be harder because you start the season from square one. I may not be in 19.3 shape, so I have to go out there, run again to try and do my best to get back into that shape," he said.

"But, I am looking forward to going out there and do my best as always.

"I have a lot of work to do and I am still working hard," he added.

The Jamaican, who will be looking to dethrone Gay at the August World Championships, is hoping both athletes will be able to line up in the blocks before that date. "I definitely would love to meet Tyson before World Champs, that way I will know where I am at (in my preparation).

"It's always going to be a battle with Gay, because he is not a person who ever gives up." The 12th IAAF World Championships will be held in Berlin from August 15-23.