Category Archives: OLYMPICS

ATHLETICS IN THE PHILIPPINES

by in FILIPINO, OLYMPICS, PHILIPPINES, SPORTS, TRACK AND FIELD, Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Inspired by my wife I decided to write this article. This article is an exploration of performances, potential, and the future of Track and Field in the Philippines.  In subsequent articles, I will delve into the Teams, Men, and Women, by Event, strength and weakness.

On a recent visit to Manila and walking around wearing a Beret, a Gentleman from a distance shouted, “Hey Bob Marley” to which I replied, “Hail up Dread” make it a Great day. His greeting was his way of saying since you are Black and wearing Bob Marley signature headdress, then you must originate from Jamaica. In essence, just saying Hello and letting you know I appreciate you, Bob Marley, Reggae Music, and the Island Nation. 

Point of fact, not all Jamaicans is Black. There are Jamaicans of every Race and Ethnicity. The Jamaican Motto is “Out of Many, One People“. I consider myself a Universal person and therefore, I can interact with people on any Island, in any Country, and on all Continents. My only preference is they speak some English or good with hand gestures. It does not matter if their English is limited; I am very good at interpreting.

Now then, let us explore Philippines Athletes and their preparedness for Olympics 2020. How good are they? If they are not yet as good as Jamaicans or Americans, is there a Pride of the Philippines among them, or is there a Burning Spear.

The Philippines Olympic History is Representative. Carlos Yulo is blazing the Trail. He had fabulous performances in 2019 World Championships winning GOLD for Artistic Gymnastics. He has a tremendous upside and certainly one in which the fans are optimistic. In 2019, Philippines Athletics took a significant step forward. The Philippines performance in South East Asia (SEA) 2019 Games looked impressive but how will they compete in Olympics 2020.

On the Women, side of the Track Kristina Marie Knott with Personal Best in the 200M of 23.01 and 11.27 in the 100M appears to be the best to date in the Philippines. The Women’s Team is competitive. In subsequent articles, I will delve into the Performances of lesser-known Athletes by Event, strength and weakness.

On the Men, side of the Track and Field competition several Athletes standout but James Deiparine looks promising as well as Eric Cray. Eric Cray’s performances are impressive but he has some hard work ahead to be successful in Olympics 2020. The Men’s Team is competitive. In subsequent articles, I will delve into the Performances of lesser-known Athletes by Event, strength and weakness.

LFT

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UNFORGOTTEN CHAMPIONS

by in ANTHEM, COMMONWEALTH GAMES 2018, ELAINE THOMPSON, JAMAICA, OLYMPICS, Shelly Ann Fraser Pryce, TOKYO, TRACK AND FIELD, Uncategorized, WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS | Leave a comment

COVID-19 caused the rescheduling of Olympics 2020 but Athletics is essential. Sports Fans look forward to seeing Olympic caliber Athletes perform, especially those who compete in Track and Field events including the Marathon. Since there is a lot happening in the world from the Caribbean to South China Sea, this is an appropriate time to give a shout out to all Athletes expecting to perform in the make-up Tokyo 2020 Olympics. The event is scheduled for July 23 to August 8 2021 but still not a certainty.

There is hope all Athletes kept themselves mentally and physically fit. Athletes, who participated in the Diamond League, did well in preparing to be an Olympian. If your performance is not good enough, get busy and be psychologically prepared by January 2021. Consistent with expectations, let us look at the performance and potential of Athletes on the Jamaican Team. YOU ARE ALL UNFORGOTTEN CHAMPIONS. The Jamaican Team could win about nine medals. The following is my expectations of prominent Jamaican athletes, starting with the Females.

FEMALE: Natoya Goule, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Remona Burchell, Gayon Evans, Elaine Thompson, Stephanie-Ann McPherson, Aisha Praught – Leer, Jeanine Williams, Danielle Williams, Shanieka Ricketts, Kimberly Williams, Danniel Thomas-Dodd, Tiffany James, and Anastasia Leroy.

Congrats, to Elaine Thompson now married with new name Elaine Thompson Herah. Expectations are Elaine Thompson will be a contender in Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Her performance in Rio 2016 was exceptional. She is one of the few Female athletes who can run the 100M with regularity, in less than 11.00 seconds. She has also proven that she can run the 200M in less than 22.00 seconds. Expectations are she will perform well in Olympics 2020. Winning the Women’s 100M will require a time of less than 11.0 seconds, probably about 10.61.

Shelly Ann Fraser Pryce is doing very well. Twenty-Twenty (2020) was an excellent year for Shelly. Absent injuries she is the favorite to win the Women 100M. Shelly-Ann Fraser- Pryce continues to do well in Jamaican Female Track and Field. Her performances look Exceptional. She had a wonderful outing in Doha 2019 and continues to perform at a High Level.

Natoya Goule is a star. She will be a force to reckon with in Japan. She needs to exhibit more confidence at the start Line and wave with a little exuberance. Despite finishing sixth in Doha 2019, she continues to improve her performance in the 800 Meters. Goule will be ready to win the 800 Meters at Olympics 2020. It is refreshing to see an athlete step away and establish a new frontier. She is a Burning Spear.

Remona Burchell has potential that could surface in Olympics 2020. Base on her accolades competitive performance is expected. Her challenge is can she run faster than 11.03 seconds for the 100M. Her 200M performance of 23.92 is hopeful. One is in search of performances since 2018.

Gayon Evans has potential specifically in the 200M. Perhaps she should focus on that event. 23.18 seconds is a good time. If she can run faster than 23.0, she will be a contender. She appeared to be maintaining form in 2019.

Stephanie-Ann McPherson is still near the top of the 400M runners list. Olympics 2020 might be her final quest for Olympic stardom.  She appeared to be maintaining form in 2019 and will be a contender.

Aisha Praught-Leer should improve on her 2018 Commonwealth Games accomplishments. There are expectations of strong performances in all or whichever event she decides to run. She is also a Classic Nerd and Olympics 2020 could be her final quest for Olympic stardom. 

Jeanine Williams will be a force to reckon with in the 100M hurdles. She should focus on that event. The 100 meter will be a challenge. There is a possibility she might earn a spot on the 4×100 meter relay team. She is the epitome of a Student Athlete. Olympics 2020 might be her final quest for Olympic stardom.

Danielle Williams is also a force to reckon with in the 100M hurdles. She had great performances in the Diamond League in 2019 and an exceptional performance in Doha. Hang on to your Hats!!! Women’s 100M Hurdles will be hot, get your Tickets now, but brace yourself for a refund. Make-up Tokyo 2020 Olympics is not a certainty.

Shanieka Ricketts should do well in the Triple Jump. One expects improvement since the North American, Central American, Caribbean Championships, and Doha 2019. Olympics 2020 in 2021 might be her best year for Olympic stardom.

Kimberly Williams is an excellent Triple Jump athlete. However, the Olympics and World Championships have not seen her best performances. Perhaps, 2020 will be the year. The fans certainly hope she does.

Danniel Thomas-Dodd is ready to take her performance to another level. There is an expectation of improvement since 2018 Commonwealth Games. The competition will be fierce but she can win. Her performance in Doha 2019 is setting the stage. Her training technique and Public Relations presence is excellent.

Tiffany James appears to have some work to do base on recent competition. It will be interesting to see if she can handle performing as an individual in the 400M. Performance at the junior level is recognized but the Olympics stage is more challenging. Regardless she will be competitive.

Anastasia Leroy has exhibited solid performances and has additional potential. For Anastasia the time is now and a strong performance is expected. Despite finishing sixth in Doha 2019, there is still time to be ready for Olympics 2020.

The following is my expectations of prominent Jamaican Male athletes at Olympics 2020.

MALE: Yohan Blake, Everton Clarke, Omar McLeod, Javon Francis, Nathon Allen, Demish Gaye, Tajay Gayle, Ronald Levy, Clive Pullen, O’Dayne Richards, Fedrick Dacres, Traves Smikle, Andre Clarke, Jermaine Gayle, and Rusheen McDonald.

Yohan Blake did not have a good outing in the 2018 Commonwealth Games. His performance in Doha 2019 did not meet expectations. Olympics 2020 is definitely time for Yohan Blake to perform at his best in the 100M and 200M. The stage is set for Yohan to have solid performances. There is only so much continuous running in the legs of a Professional sprinter. At some point between Training and competing, the body gets tired even if the brain does not. Yohan Blake is approaching that point. He will participate in the 2020 Olympics and then retire. Suffice to say, no athlete is winning the Men’s 100M in Olympics 2020 unless he runs the distance in less than 10.0 seconds.

Omar McLeod continues to impress. His performances have created renewed interest in the 110M Hurdles. The 110M Hurdles is an event in which Jamaican Athletes should excel. Doha 2019 was a defeat but there is still time for Omar to bounce back. Until Omar is defeated at the Olympics, he owns that event. It is time to get ready for Olympics 2020. He has support in his consideration to compete in the 400M Hurdles.

Javon Francis appears to be staying in shape. Staying in shape will prevent a repeat of this kind of performance. Will 2020 be the year he talks to the man in the mirror? Will 2020 be the year he rebounds?

Everton Clarke with a Personal Best of 10.08 for the 100M and 20.45 for the 200M should see Olympics 2020 as a venue to achieve. He should make the Team. His Men’s 4 × 100 meters relay participation in the 2018 Commonwealth Games was strong. Olympics 2020 will make or break the career of many athletes. That is true for both Male and Female. Everton Clarke is one of those athletes. Apparently not selected for Doha 2019 but should make it to Olympics 2020.

Nathon Allen showed promise in 2017 but in 2018, he appeared to falter. Perhaps, there was something lacking in his training regiment. He should be able to resolve the matter and return rejuvenated.

Tajay Gayle looks exceptional at the Long Jump. Olympics 2020 is definitely the year for him to demonstrate his talent. He looked exceptional in Doha 2019.

Demish Gaye ran a respectable time of 44.55 for the 400M in World Championships 2017. He has some work to do but he is capable. The way forward is clear. If he can reduce his time to between 43.5 and 43.9 seconds, he will be in the discussion for a medal in Olympics 2020. That will change the narrative of the conspicuously absent Jamaicans in the 400M finals at the Olympics.

Ronald Levy is the Athlete with the best potential to challenge Omar McLeod. He has excellent technique and speed. He is at his prime for the 110M Hurdles. The 2020 Olympics, is definitely the year for him to demonstrate he is a superior athlete in that event.

Clive Pullen if still active should be competitive in the Triple Jump (Hop Skip and Jump).

O’Dayne Richards should be competitive in the shot put and discus throw. He should be able to give a good account of himself in both events. Along with Fedrick Dacres and Traves Smikle, the Men’s Field events squad should Medal at Olympics 2020. If Doha is an indication, Hardware is expected.

Andre Clarke if still active should be competitive in the 400M Hurdles. Regardless of any performances not seen, this event is up for grabs at Olympics 2020. Anyone from anywhere can win.

Jermaine Gayle still has time to come in from the cold. Excellent performance in the 400M event will require men who will consistently run between 43.01 and 44.5 and women who will consistently run between 48.0 and 49.4. This is a serious challenge. The 400M race is the most exhausting of the sprints.

Rusheen McDonald should be competitive in the 400M sprint. Regardless of any performances not seen in 2020, if he improves on his Personal Best of 43.93, he should make the Team.

HAPPY NEW YEAR ALL!!!

LFT

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COVID-19 – ALL THINGS CONSIDERED

by in China., DEMOCRAT PARTY, Entrepreneurship, ETHIOPIA, FILIPINO, ISRAEL, ISSUES, Jobs, Manufacturing, NEWS, OLYMPICS, PHILIPPINES, POLITICS, POTUS, republican Party, TRACK AND FIELD, TRAGEDY, Uncategorized, Unemployment, USA | Leave a comment

The Medical Community should be ashamed. From Maine to Washington, the Medical Community should be ashamed. After SARS, one would think that the Medical Community would have been better prepared. Whatever happened to “What If”? While impressed by their ability to bounce back and look good doing it they should have been ahead of the curve and not behind the Eight Ball. Changing the Messenger was the Right thing to do. Even if Country is Eighteen (18) Months away from a Vaccine, do not tell People that. My Mentor would have said Months and leave it there. Thank you Dr. Birx – Lights, Camera, Action with compassion but no Doom and Gloom.

The World Health Organization (WHO) is a phony entity. Country should not rely on their data or commentary and should stop making monetary contribution to the organization. Consistent with that the United Nations (UN) has outlived its usefulness. The United Nations in its current form is not what Woodrow Wilson had in mind. The UN charter was to mediate International disputes not meddle in the Internal Affairs of Countries as in the organization response to issues pertaining to Israel and the Philippines. The Leader of the Philippines has the right to conduct a war on Drugs.

Whatever COVID-19 Virus is, it was further along than the Narrative indicating. Corona Virus is a known organism. The COVID-19 strain is new. However, it is difficult to believe that people ate Animals from the wild and a Virus developed exuding from Nose, Mouth, or Pores of the skin. The result, a contagion affecting other Humans causing infection and exhibiting Flu like symptoms transmitted from person to person and Country to Country.

What is more believable is there have been many failed experiments contributing to the apparently endless germination of Corona Viruses. There is an aura of Biological warfare. It might also be a sinister attempt to thwart the considerable Gains of the Administration and exhibit malice in reaction to Tariffs. Regardless I am confident that Country and the World will survive.

What is the True origin of COVID-19? When, where, and how did it originate? When, where, and how did it get to Country? Seems to me all are unanswered questions. The suppositions are varied and span the gamut of the following.

  • Virus migrated near and far on its own
  • Virus was Aerosolized and sprayed into the atmosphere
  • Virus was Aerosolized and Shipped to all Continents and then enabled at Destinations
  • Virus was introduced to Migrants who then Travelled to Countries and enabled contamination at destinations.

One thing is certain, the initial narrative seems more contrived than real. How many strains of COVID-19 exist? It is unlikely anyone knows and any attempt to quantify will be a justifiable effort to prevent Corona Virus Hysteria. Canceling Games and Events might prove to have been unnecessary and overreacting. However, a Corona Virus ruckus is not helpful.

The Democrat Party cannot do any better than POTUS with this issue. None of the 2020 Democrat Presidential candidates can articulate a resolution. Incidentally, who is the Democrat Presidential candidate? The current contender is a Non-Starter and all the Names mentioned are unqualified. Perhaps, there is a woman behind the curtain waiting to declare at the Convention. The Democrat Party is more a problem than the solution. The Democrat Party is a problem for the future of Country. It is time to review their Charter or Mission Statement.

Richard Nixon went to China to find Markets for Manufacturers. His intention was “Made in the USA”. While some Manufacturing was expected to be in China, one does not recall that all would be. In addition, why not have a Plant in China and one in Country to supply local needs. What is the Logic behind moving all operations to Asia, closing Plants in the USA, displacing workers, and then sending finished Goods to Country for Sale? Where will displaced workers get money to Purchase said merchandise. If entire companies and operations moved to China, then support Entrepreneurs to establish said Industries in Country. There are many more Citizens with Knowledgebase and Skills to Produce said Merchandise.

I think the Democrats got it wrong again or maybe for a fistful of Dollars they were persuaded to deviate from Nixon’s intent. When and how did China become The World Supplier? What if, Country is not cordial or having a quarrel with China? The Geneva Convention has no provision to prevent starvation or discomfort from lack of Supplies. Would you rather have Pollution and Supplies or No Pollution and No Supplies? People seem to be interested in cleaning up the Planet. That is a ridiculous concept. EARTH WAS HERE BEFORE YOU AND WILL BE HERE AFTER YOU. A World with the expectation of one Major Supplier or supplies coming from one grid is Dysfunctional, unless one wishes Grocery stores to look similar to those in undeveloped countries. That is a serious matter with many Red Flags.

Raiding Grocery stores is consistent with Scavenging and behavior that only Neanderthals engage in. Is COVID-19 what it takes to remind people to drink water, use Paper Towel, and Toilet Paper? Raiding Grocery stores to Purchase water and emptying the shelves of Toilet Paper, Paper Towel, and other Basics is unacceptable. Unless you plan to drink warm or hot water, it is of no more value than it was yesterday. The Virus likes Cold environment inclusive of cold water. Actually, your fellow American is raiding Grocery stores to hoard the basics and sell it for a Profit. That is not neighborly.

What if COVID-19 is the result of a Failed Laboratory experiment. That would require looking “beyond the apparent” but required regarding this matter. The spread of “COVID-19” will have an impact on the Military and World Economy. Both are reasons to look closer at what is the True origin of COVID-19. When, where, and how did it originate? How do we prevent re-occurrence?

POTUS did the right thing in stopping Airline Traffic from China and soon there will be other Countries. We in Country need to figure out why so many masked individuals arriving from Asia or China. Contrary to current belief, if you are wearing a Mask, you have some medical issue a Doctor considers contagious. Wearing a Mask is “to prevent spread or transmission”. Wearing a Mask does not prevent you the “MASKED PEDESTRIAN” from contracting COVID-19 or any other Virus.

Given the amount of Masked Traffic, “COVID-19” might have been in Country longer and from locations other than the narrative reported. Country has no choice but to screen all “Masked Migrants”. In fact, they should be screened at point of origin. Prior to Year 2000 one would not be allowed in Country if a Mask was a mandatory part of their attire.

The rescheduling of the Summer Olympics in Japan is disappointing. However, unless the IOC could use the Sydney venue in Australia it had no choice. The IOC had to make a decision. There was no time to wait. Athletes had to make plans from preparedness to Travel. Quite candidly, some Individual Athletes or Teams would have cancelled participation. The Summer Olympics consistent with competing starts with and end with The Respiratory System – No breathing No running.

The significant Tragedy of COVID-19 Virus is the damage to the Airline Industry. Those who Travel domestically or internationally are tremendously impacted. Countries that are recipients of International Travel are experiencing serious Economic downturn. The Airline Industry inclusive of Airplane manufacturers is struggling. This Industry needs Disaster Recovery. There is no stimulus here. There is nothing to stimulate just a whole lot to Recover or Rebuild. Once more, the Democrats get it wrong. They are so stuck on the so-called “Stimulus Bill” that did nothing for the Economy during the previous Administration.

Before any talk of a fourth Economic Assistance Package or Rescue Bill, Republicans in the Senate and the House should consider supporting a Line Item Veto. POTUS should have powers to use a Line Item Veto to construct the Final Bill. What is the Line Item Veto? It means POTUS has the right to review each section of the Bill and make a determination on relevance to the Goals and Objective. If the item is not relevant, remove it. To be honest this might be something the Founding Fathers overlooked. If it was in the Constitution, it is unlikely we would have Deficits and Debt. In addition, a Bill on this Subject should not be more than 10 Pages. Who has time to read 1000 Pages? A Bill on 1000 Pages is ridiculous at best. In fact, it might have residence in the sublime.

Observation indicates that Leaders of some Countries are focusing on COVID-19 Virus and less concerned about feeding the People. That is a delicate balance and said Countries run the risk of Killing people from hunger while trying to stay alive fighting COVID-19 Virus. It is also apparent that there might be erroneous diagnoses of Patients as having contracted COVID-19 Virus when they are afflicted with some other Medical concern. What if Patients are dying from underlying conditions and not COVID-19 Virus? The Group Quarantine practice is suspicious. Why put sick people together. Does that not affect their ability to recuperate?  Why not let them Self Quarantine.

LFT

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TAKEAWAY FROM CORONA VIRUS

by in CDC, CEBU, China., DEMOCRAT PARTY, FILIPINO, health care, Manufacturing, OLYMPICS, PHILIPPINES, POLITICS, POTUS, republican Party, SPORTS, Uncategorized, USA | 1 Comment

Whatever COVID-19 Virus is, it was further along than the Narrative indicate. Corona Virus is a known organism. The COVID-19 strain is new. It is difficult to believe that people ate Animals from the wild and a Virus developed exuding from Nose, Mouth, or Pores of the skin. The result, a contagion affecting other Humans causing infection and exhibiting Flu like symptoms transmitted from person to person and Country to Country.

The Medical Community appears alarmed. Regardless it is time to move forward and cease wallowing in panic mode, especially the Media. The messaging from the CDC has been less than encouraging. One could conjure the Replacement of the messenger. Fortunately, we have strong leadership and a Supporting Team in the Administration. I hope this is not a sinister attempt to thwart the considerable Gains of the Administration. I am confident that Country and the World will survive.

What is the True origin of COVID-19? When, where, and how did it originate? Seems to me those are all unanswered questions. The narrative to date seems more contrived than real. How many strains of COVID-19 exist? It is not likely anyone knows yet and any attempt to quantify will be a justifiable effort to prevent Corona Virus Hysteria. Unfortunately, there is already Worldwide Hysteria but everyone should take two steps backward and move forward to address and resolve. Canceling Games and Events could prove to be unnecessary and overreacting. A Corona Virus ruckus is not helpful.

Now is the time for the Medical Professionals to think outside Books. COVID-19 should not be politicized. The Intelligentsia as well as the Proletariat can agree on the need to refrain from the Politization of COVID-19. The Democrat Party cannot do any better than POTUS with this issue. None of the 2020 Democrat Presidential candidates can articulate a resolution. The Democrat Party is more a problem than the solution. The Democrat Party is a problem for the future of Country. It is probably time to review their Charter or Mission Statement.

How and why did China become The World Supplier? What if, Country is not cordial or having a quarrel with China? The Geneva Convention has no provision to prevent starvation or discomfort from lack of Supplies. Would you rather have Pollution and Food or No Pollution and No Food? A World with the expectation of one Major Supplier or supplies coming from one grid is Dysfunctional, unless one wishes Grocery stores to look similar to those in undeveloped countries.

What is obvious is Chinese are traveling extensively. Included with the Travel are Viruses specific to China. With more than a Billion people and only a finite number of Jobs, they have to Travel to find work. That COVID-19 is affecting the Stock Market is ridiculous at best. The Stock Market is not for the Faint of Heart. Investors who dump stocks because of COVID-19, has more to lose if they plan to return.

Raiding Grocery stores is consistent with Scavenging and behavior that only Neanderthals engage in. Is COVID-19 what it takes to remind people to drink water, use Paper Towel, and Toilet Paper? Raiding Grocery stores to Purchase water and emptying the shelves of Toilet Paper, Paper Towel, and other Basics is unacceptable. Unless you plan to drink warm or hot water, it is of no more value than it was yesterday. The Virus likes Cold environment inclusive of cold water. Actually, your fellow American is raiding the Grocery stores to hoard the basics and sell it to you for a Profit. How neighborly.

What if COVID-19 is the result of a Failed Laboratory experiment. That would require looking “beyond the apparent” but required regarding this matter. The spread of “COVID-19” will have an impact on the Military and World Economy. Those are reasons to look closer at what is the True origin of COVID-19. When, where, and how did it originate? How do we prevent a repeat occurrence?

Corona Virus has been around for some time. The COVID-19 strain is new. The Corona virus testing is suspect and is being done out of fear. There is nothing to fear but fear itself. Stop scaring people and encouraging long Drive Through lines for Testing. We have the tools and Brains to resolve this outbreak. Testing and declaring individuals Positive or Negative is the wrong approach. Disseminating verbiage regarding catch it before you get it, is fear mongering. Those with significant Biology background find the CDC messaging bothersome and demand that the messenger be replaced. Relax, People catch the flu every day and live. Treat COVID-19 as Flu and stop exhibiting the Plague mentality.

POTUS did the right thing in stopping Airline Traffic from China and soon there will be other Countries. We in Country need to figure out why so many masked individuals arriving from Asia or China. Contrary to current belief, if you are wearing a Mask, you have some medical issue a Doctor considers contagious. Wearing a Mask is “to prevent spread or transmission”. Wearing a Mask does not prevent you the “MASKED PEDESTRIAN” from contracting COVID-19 or any other Virus.

Given the amount of Masked Traffic I have seen, “COVID-19” might have been in Country longer and from locations other than the narrative reported. Country has no choice but to screen all “Masked Migrants”. Prior to Year 2000 one would not be allowed in Country if a Mask was a mandatory part of their attire.

The three (3) Major TAKEAWAY FROM CORONA VIRUS are:

  1. Exposure of a Dysfunctional World Supply Chain.
  2. Cancellation of the Summer Olympics in Japan and
  3. Disruption of International Travel

Exposure of a Dysfunctional World Supply Chain.

COVID-19 has exposed a major flaw in the Supply Chain. Relying on Basic Supplies from other countries is a Dangerous position. How do you go from “Made in the USA” to “Receivership by the USA” and only when products are not tainted with “COVID-19” or other contagious disease? A World with the expectation that one Country is the Major or only Supplier is Dysfunctional. It took one day after the raid on Grocery stores and hoarding of water, Toilet Paper, Paper Towel, and other Basics, to create a noticeable shortage of said products on the Shelves. That is a serious matter with many Red Flags.

Cancellation of the Summer Olympics in Japan

It seems unlikely that Summer Olympics will proceed as planned. The IOC may have to borrow the Sydney venue in Australia. If Sydney or another venue is safe and test negative for COVID-19 the IOC must decide now. There is no time to wait.

Disruption of International Travel

Those who like to Travel are climbing the walls. Countries that are recipients of International Travel are experiencing serious Economic downturn. The Airline Industry inclusive of Airplane manufacturers is struggling.

 

LFT

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GOULE COULD DELIVER IN JAPAN OLYMPICS 2020

by in OLYMPICS, SPORTS, TRACK AND FIELD, Uncategorized | Leave a comment

 

Natoya Goule is a star. Despite finishing sixth in Doha 2019, she continues to improve her performance in the 800 Meters. Recently, she finished second in the 800-meter Diamond League Final. Quite candidly, when she watches the Tape, she will realize she should have won but not to worry. It was not the 2020 Olympics 800 – meter Final.

Goule will be ready to win the 800 Meters at Olympics 2020. It is refreshing to see an athlete step away and establish a new frontier. She is a Burning Spear. She has my vote for flag bearer in the opening ceremony.

She is ready. She will be a force to reckon with in Japan. She needs to exhibit more confidence at the start Line. Wave with a little exuberance. Do not let the competition see you nervous but certainly let them see you sweat at the finish. Here are things that Natoya Goule can do to ensure victory.

  • Work on a Sprint Finish
  • Develop more confidence in her stride or Form
  • Believe in herself and tune out opponents or the competition
  • Think of the Olympics 2020 in Training
  • Think of the Records for the event and aim for the fastest time. World time is 1:53:28. Olympics is 1:53:43.
  • Develop a strategy and run every Race accordingly. Tweak it a little where necessary.
  • I recommend the following Splits, First 100M – Next 600M – Next 50M – Final 50M. Do not run in the Pack. Do not engage in a Jog in the park. Run the Race, get into the heads of the competitors, and run the splits. Mentally and physically, practice the splits. Get to the point where there is no thinking, just running.
  • First 100M establish Momentum
  • Next 600M maintain Momentum, follow the leader, and always stay in striking distance of the Leader but at your Pace. If the Lead changes, follow that leader. If the Pace is too slow, go by and stay at your Pace (one you have proven that you can maintain during Training). Do not Jockey for the lead it will ruin your Stamina.
  • Stay within yourself. Just exert enough energy to maintain Momentum. Your mission is to win. Take the Record if you can.
  • Next 50M get ready to sprint. This is like a running start in Relays but longer. Ask a member of 4 x 100 Relay team to work with you on that in Training. Be serious it will make a difference.
  • Final 50M run as fast as you can to the Finish. Leave nothing on the Track. Focus on the Finish Line. The only Race you are running is this one. Past and future races are of no concern. This is where work on Sprinting will help.
  • Imagine you are in the Olympics 2020 Final in Training and Competition. See yourself winning the ultimate Prize. You have to imagine accomplishing.

Training should not be fun. It should be hard work but no Pain, no Gain. You have my vote for flag bearer in the opening ceremony.

TELEGRAM: Natoya Goule, hereby stake Claim to Victory in the Women’s 800 meters Olympics 2020 in Japan…

 

LFT

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PRELUDE TO OLYMPICS 2020- JAPAN

by in ELAINE THOMPSON, FILIPINO, OLYMPICS, Shelly Ann Fraser Pryce, SPORTS, TOKYO, TRACK AND FIELD, Uncategorized, Usain Bolt, WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS | Leave a comment

 

Summer Olympics 2020, is Jul 24 – Aug 9, 2020 in Tokyo, Japan. All Olympic hopefuls are expected to compete. Competing in this event is required. If you own a bag with Track shoes, athletic equipment inside, been hibernating in 2017, 2018, and 2019; year-end 2019 is the time to wake up. Get ready, on your mark, set, and Go. Wake the World and tell the People.

I am expecting significant improvement in Jamaican Track and Field performance. Significant improvement, since World Championships 2017, Commonwealth Games 2018, NACAC Championships 2018, and Doha 2019. Tongue in cheek, any performance not indicative of maintenance or improvement will raise the Ire of Jamaican Track and Field fans, prompting sentiments of disappointment.

Track and Field is the ultimate excitement in Athletics but the athlete must be in Athletic shape. Let us look at how some athletes are performing and positioning for Summer Olympics 2020, to date.

FEMALE: Natoya Goule, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Remona Burchell, Gayon Evans, Elaine Thompson, Stephanie-Ann McPherson, Aisha Praught – Leer, Rushell Burton, Jeanine Williams, Danielle Williams, Shanieka Rickets, Kimberly Williams, Danniel Thomas-Dodd, Tiffany James, and Anastasia Leroy.

Natoya Goule is a star. Despite finishing sixth in Doha 2019, I anticipate improvement and a good performance in the 800 Meters. The competition will be fierce but she has the ability to earn a medal. It is refreshing to see an athlete step away and establish a new frontier.

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce continues to do well in Jamaican Female Track and Field. I wish her well in 2020. Her performances look good. She had a wonderful outing in Doha 2019. We all hoped she was victorious in the 2016 Olympics in winning the Women’s 100M a third consecutive time but that did not happen.

It appears some athletes are waiting to peak in spring 2020. That could be a bad strategy. One should be taking a break in spring 2020 and work on the mental or psychological. Coming into summer fresh and hungry like the Wolf is a better strategy.

Remona Burchell has potential that could surface in Olympics 2020. Based on her accolades I expect competitive performance. Her challenge is can she run faster than 11.03 seconds for the 100M. Her 200M performance of 23.92 is hopeful.

Gayon Evans has potential specifically in the 200M. Perhaps she should focus on that event. 23.18 seconds is a good time. If she can run faster than 23.0, she will be a contender.

Elaine Thompson has proven that she is excellent athlete. She will always be a force to reckon with as long as she is in good health. Not a good outing in Doha 2019 but she will bounce back. Her performance in Rio 2016 was exceptional. She is one of the few Female athletes who can run the 100M with regularity, in less than 11.00 seconds. She has also proven that she can run the 200M in less than 22.00 seconds. Overall, I expect her to perform well in Olympics 2020. No athlete is winning the Women’s 100M in 2020 unless she runs the distance in less than 11.0 seconds.

Stephanie-Ann McPherson is still near the top of the 400M runners list. This might be her final quest for Olympic stardom.

Aisha Praught-Leer should improve on her 2018 Commonwealth Games accomplishments. I expect strong performances in all or whichever event she decides to run.

Rushell Burton will continue to improve in 100M Hurdles. I expect her to be competitive.

Jeanine Williams will be a force to reckon with in the hurdles. She should focus on that event. The 100 meter will be a challenge. There is a possibility she might earn a spot on the 4×100 meter relay team. She is the epitome of a Student Athlete.

Danielle Williams is also a force to reckon with in the hurdles. She had great performances in the Diamond League in 2019 and an exceptional performance in Doha.

Shanieka Rickets should do well in the Triple Jump. I expect improvement since the North American, Central American, Caribbean Championships, and Doha 2019.

 Kimberly Williams is an excellent Triple Jump athlete. However, the Olympics and World Championships have not seen her best performances. Perhaps, 2020 will be the year. The fans certainly hope so.

Danniel Thomas-Dodd is ready to take her performance to another level. I expect improvement since 2018 Commonwealth Games. The competition will be fierce but I think she can win. Her performance in Doha 2019 is setting the stage.

Tiffany James should be ready to step away from the shadows of relay competition. It would be interesting to see if she can handle performing as an individual in the 400M. Performance at the junior level is recognized but the Olympics stage is more challenging.

Anastasia Leroy has exhibited solid performances and has additional potential that should be realized in Olympics 2020. For Anastasia the time is now and I anticipate a strong performance. Despite finishing sixth in Doha 2019, there is still time to atone and be ready for Olympics 2020.

MALE: Yohan Blake, Everton Clarke, Omar McLeod, Javon Francis, Steven Gayle, Tajay Gayle, Ronald Levy, Demar Forbes, Clive Pullen, O’Dayne Richards, Andre Clarke, Jermaine Gayle, and Rusheen McDonald.

Yohan Blake did not have a good outing in the 2018 Commonwealth Games. His performance in Doha 2019 did not meet expectations. Olympics 2020 is definitely time for Yohan Blake to perform at his best in the 100M and 200M. The stage is set for Yohan to have solid performances. However, there is only so much continuous running in the legs of a Professional sprinter. At some point between Training and competing, the body gets tired even if the brain does not. Yohan Blake might be approaching that point. I think he participates in the 2020 Olympics and then retire. Suffice to say, no athlete is winning the Men’s 100M in 2020 unless he runs the distance in less than 10.0 seconds.

Everton Clarke with a Personal Best of 10.08 for the 100M and 20.45 for the 200M should see Olympics 2020 as a venue to achieve. I hope he makes the Team. His Men’s 4 × 100 meters relay participation in the 2018 Commonwealth Games was strong. Olympics 2020 will make or break the career of many athletes. That is true for both Male and Female. Everton Clarke is one of those athletes. Apparently not selected for Doha 2019 but I still have hope he will make it to Olympics 2020.

I am not a fan of World Championships. Heads up the Africans are getting better but Coaching in Jamaica is improving and very conscious of the need for Resources. South East Asia including the Philippines will be there.

Omar McLeod continues to impress. His performances have created renewed interest in the 110M Hurdles. The 110M Hurdles is an event in which Jamaican Athletes should excel. Doha 2019 was a defeat but there is still time for Omar to bounce back. Until Omar is defeated at the Olympics, he owns that event. He was the first from Jamaica to win the event on that stage but he knows there will be others. For now, let him enjoy the fame and fortune. It is time to get ready for Olympics 2020. I am 100 percent behind him and support his consideration of the 400M Hurdles.

Javon Francis appears to be staying in shape. Staying in shape will prevent a repeat of this kind of performance. Will 2020 be the year he talks to the man in the mirror? Will 2020 be the year he rebounds?

Steven Gayle showed promise in 2017 but in 2018, he appeared to falter. Perhaps, there was something lacking in his training regiment. I hope the matter is resolved and he will return rejuvenated.

Tajay Gayle looks exceptional at the Long Jump. 2020 Olympics, is definitely the year for him to demonstrate his talent. He looked good in Doha 2019.

Ronald Levy is the Athlete with the best potential to challenge Omar McLeod. He has excellent technique and speed. He is at his prime for the 110M Hurdles. The 2020 Olympics, is definitely the year for him to demonstrate he is a superior athlete in that event.

Demar Forbes if still active should be competitive in the Long Jump. The 2020 Olympics, is definitely the year for him to demonstrate his capability in that event.

Clive Pullen if still active should be competitive in the Triple Jump (Hop Skip and Jump).

O’Dayne Richards should be competitive in the shot put and discus throw. He should be able to give a good account of himself in both events. Along with Fedrick Dacres and Traves Smikle, the Men’s Field events squad should Medal at Olympics 2020. If Doha is an indication, I expect Hardware.

Andre Clarke if still active should be competitive in the 400M Hurdles. Regardless of any performances I have not seen, this event is up for grabs at Olympics 2020. Anyone from anywhere can win.

Jermaine Gayle still has time to come in from the cold. Excellent performance in the 400M event will require men who will consistently run between 43.01 and 44.5 and women who will consistently run between 48.0 and 49.4. This is a serious challenge. The 400M race is the most exhausting of the sprints.

Rusheen McDonald should be competitive in the 400M sprint. Regardless of any performances I have not seen, if he improves on his Personal Best of 43.93 he should make the Team.

Team Jamaica Men grade by Event and expectations at Olympics 2020:

Men:

Event     Analysis                                        Grade

100 M – Need Improvement –                       C

200 M – Need Improvement –                       C

400 M – Need Improvement –                       C

800 M – Need much Improvement –             D

1500 M– Need much Improvement –            D

Long Jump – Excellent –                               B

Triple Jump – Need much Improvement – D

High Jump – Need much Improvement –      F

Hurdles 110 M – Excellent –              A+

Hurdles 400 M – Excellent –              A

Discus – Excellent –                                       A+

Shot Put – Good –                                          B

Javelin – Need much Improvement –            F

Pole Vault – Need much Improvement –       F

4 × 100 meters relay – Need Improvement – C

4 × 400 meters relay – Need Improvement – C

Team Jamaica Women grade by Event and expectations at Olympics 2020:

Women:

Event     Analysis                                            Grade

100 M – Excellent –                                            B

200 M – Need Improvement –                          C

400 M – Need Improvement –                           B

800 M – Excellent   –                                            A

1500 M – Need much Improvement –              D

Long Jump – Need Improvement –                   B

Triple Jump – Excellent –                                     A+

High Jump – Need much Improvement      –        F

Hurdles 100 M – Excellent –                                   A+

Hurdles 400 M – Excellent –                                    A

Discus – Need much Improvement –                   C

Shot Put – Need Improvement –                            B

Javelin – Need much Improvement   –                   F

4 × 100 meters relay – Excellent –                         A+

4 × 400 meters relay – Excellent –                          A+

 

Team Jamaica is looking good leading up to Olympics 2020. However, there is much work to be done. Women are doing better than Men. Field events have new Life. Team Jamaica Track and Field landscape is poised for a changing of the Guard, after Olympics 2020.

LFT

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JAM (Jamaican) TRACK AND FIELD 2020 OLYMPICS PERSPECTIVE

by in COMMONWEALTH GAMES 2018, JAMAICA, OLYMPICS, SPORTS, TOKYO, TRACK AND FIELD, Uncategorized, WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS | 2 Comments

 

 

 

 

Summer Olympics 2020 is Jul 24 – Aug 9, 2020 in Tokyo, Japan. This is the every four years replay of the Grandfather of Track and Field competition. This is a necessary event, once every four years but on an even (0, 2, 4, 6, 8) number ending year on the calendar. The World Championships is once every four years but on an odd (1, 3, 5, 7, 9) number ending year on the calendar.

Anyone wishing to be documented as an excellent athlete, Male and Female, competing in this event is required. If you own a bag with Track shoes inside, athletic  equipment, and have been hibernating in 2017 and 2018; 2019 is the time to wake up.

With respect to Jamaican Track and Field, I am expecting significant improvement since World Championships 2017, Commonwealth Games 2018, and NACAC Championships 2018. Tongue in cheek, any performance not indicative of maintenance or improvement will raise the Ire of Jamaican Track and Field fans, prompting sentiments of disappointment.

Track and Field is the ultimate excitement in Athletics but the performer must be in shape. Let us look at how athletes on a watch list are performing and positioning for the event.

FEMALE: Natoya Goule, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Remona Burchell, Gayon Evans, Elaine Thompson, Tovea Jenkins, Stephanie-Ann McPherson, Aisha Praught – Leer, Rushell Burton, Jeanine Williams, Shanieka Rickets, Kimberly Williams, Danniel Thomas-Dodd, Tiffany James, and Anastasia Leroy.

Natoya Goule is a star. I anticipate improvement and a good performance in the 800 Meters. The competition will be fierce but she has the ability to earn a medal. It is refreshing to see an athlete step away and establish a new frontier.

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce is a Vanguard of Jamaican Female Track and Field. I wish her well in 2020. I thought she would retire after Olympics 2016. Obviously, she missed the stage. Her early performances look good but I think the results of Olympics 2016 said a lot. We all hoped she was victorious in the 2016 Olympics by winning the Women’s 100M a third consecutive time but that did not happen.

Remona Burchell has potential that could surface in Olympics 2020. Based on her accolades I expect competitive performance. Her challenge is can she run faster than 11.03 seconds for the 100M.

Gayon Evans has potential specifically in the 200M. Perhaps she should focus on that event. 23.18 seconds is a good time. If she can run faster than 23.0, she will be a contender.

Elaine Thompson has proven that she is excellent athlete. She will always be a force to reckon with as long as she is in good health. Her performance in Rio 2016 was exceptional. She is one of the few Female athletes who can run the 100M with regularity, in less than 11.00 seconds. She has also proven that she can run the 200M in less than 22.00 seconds. Overall, I expect her to perform well in Olympics 2020. No athlete is winning the Women’s 100M in 2020 unless she runs the distance in less than 11.0 seconds.

Tovea Jenkins while I have not seen or heard much about her recently, this is perhaps her final chance to prove herself as a competitor in the 400M.

Stephanie-Ann McPherson is still near the top of the 400M runners list. This might be her final quest for Olympic stardom.

Aisha Praught-Leer should improve on her 2018 Commonwealth Games accomplishments. I expect strong performances in all or whichever event she decides to run.

Rushell Burton will continue to improve in 100M Hurdles. I expect her to be competitive.

Jeanine Williams will be a force to reckon with in the hurdles. She should focus on that event. The 100 meter will be a challenge. There is a possibility she might earn a spot on the 4×100 meter relay team. She is the epitome of a Student Athlete.

Shanieka Rickets should do well in the Triple Jump. I expect improvement since the North American, Central American, and Caribbean Championships.

 Kimberly Williams is an excellent Triple Jump athlete. However, the Olympics and World Championships have not seen her best performances. Perhaps, 2020 will be the year. The fans certainly hope so.

Danniel Thomas-Dodd is ready to take her performance to another level. I expect improvement since 2018 Commonwealth Games. The competition will be fierce but I think she can win.

Tiffany James should be ready to step away from the shadows of relay competition. It would be interesting to see if she can handle performing as an individual in the 400M. Performance at the junior level is recognized but the Olympics stage is more challenging.

Anastasia Leroy has exhibited solid performances and has additional potential that should be realized in Olympics 2020. For Anastasia the time is now and I anticipate a strong performance.

MALE: Yohan Blake, Everton Clarke, Kimmari Roach, Omar McLeod, Javon Francis, Steven Gayle, Ronald Levy, Demar Forbes, Clive Pullen, O’Dayne Richards, Andre Clarke, Jermaine Gayle, Peter Matthews, and Rusheen McDonald.

Yohan Blake did not have a good outing in the 2018 Commonwealth Games. Olympics 2020 is definitely time for Yohan Blake to perform at his best in the 100M and 200M. The stage is set for Yohan to have solid performances. There is only so much continuous running in the legs of a Professional sprinter. At some point between Training and competing, the body gets tired even if the brain does not. Yohan Blake might be approaching that point. I think he participates in the 2020 Olympics and then retire. Suffice to say, no athlete is winning the Men’s 100M in 2020 unless he runs the distance in less than 10.0 seconds.

Everton Clarke with a Personal Best of 10.08 for the 100M and 20.45 for the 200M should see Olympics 2020 as a venue to achieve. I hope he makes the Team. His Men’s 4 × 100 meters relay participation in the 2018 Commonwealth Games was strong. Olympics 2020 will make or break the career of many athletes. That is true for both Male and Female. Everton Clarke is one of those athletes. Heads up the Africans are getting better.

Kimmari Roach with a Personal Best of 10.12 for the 100M showed promise in 2014. Since then I have not seen much. If he is still active, now is the time for him to stand and be counted.

Omar McLeod continues to impress. His performances have created renewed interest in the 110M Hurdles. The 110M Hurdles is an event in which Jamaican Athletes can excel. Until Omar is defeated at the Olympics, he owns that event. He was the first from Jamaica to win the event on that stage but he knows there will be others. For now, let him enjoy the fame and fortune. It is time to get ready for Olympics 2020. I am 100 percent behind him and support his consideration of the 400M Hurdles.

Javon Francis appears to be staying in shape. Staying in shape will prevent a repeat of this kind of performance. Will 2020 be the year he talks to the man in the mirror? Will 2020 be the year he rebounds?

Steven Gayle showed promise in 2017 but in 2018, he appeared to falter. Perhaps, there was something lacking in his training regiment. I hope the matter is resolved and he will return rejuvenated.

Ronald Levy is an Athlete with the best potential to challenge Omar McLeod. He has excellent technique and speed. At age 27, he is at his prime for the 110M Hurdles. The 2020 Olympics, is definitely the year for him to demonstrate he is a superior athlete in that event.

Demar Forbes if still active should be competitive in the Long Jump. The 2020 Olympics, is definitely the year for him to demonstrate his capability in that event.

Clive Pullen if still active should be competitive in the Triple Jump (Hop Skip and Jump).

O’Dayne Richards should be competitive in the shot put and discus throw. Even at age 32, he should be able to give a good account of himself in both events. Along with Fedrick Dacres and Traves Smikle, the Men’s Field events squad should Medal at Olympics 2020.

Andre Clarke if still active should be competitive in the 400M Hurdles. Regardless of any performances I have not seen, this event is up for grabs at Olympics 2020. Anyone from anywhere can win.

Jermaine Gayle still has time to come in from the cold. Excellent performance in the 400M event will require men who will consistently run between 43.01 and 44.5 and women who will consistently run between 48.0 and 49.4. This is a serious challenge. The 400M race is the most exhausting of the sprints. Accumulation of Lactic Acid affects performance on the Track.

Peter Matthews if still active should be competitive in the 400M sprint. Regardless of any performances I have not seen, if he improves on his Personal Best of 44.69 he is heading in the right direction.

Rusheen McDonald if still active should be competitive in the 400M sprint. Regardless of any performances I have not seen, if he improves on his Personal Best of 43.93 he should make the Team.

Team Jamaica grade by Event and expectations at Olympics 2020:

Men:

Event     Analysis                                        Grade

100 M – Need Improvement –                       C

200 M – Need Improvement –                       C

400 M – Need Improvement –                       C

800 M – Need much Improvement –             D

1500 M– Need much Improvement –            D

Long Jump – Need Improvement –                B

Triple Jump – Need much Improvement –   D

High Jump – Need much Improvement –      F

Hurdles 110 M – Excellent –                             A+

Hurdles 400 M – Excellent –                              A

Discus – Excellent –                                             A+

Shot Put – Good –                                                  B

Javelin – Need much Improvement –               F

4 × 100 meters relay – Need Improvement –   C

4 × 400 meters relay – Need Improvement –   C

Team Jamaica grade by Event and expectations at Olympics 2020:

Women:

Event     Analysis                                            Grade

100 M – Need Improvement –                           C

200 M – Need Improvement –                           C

400 M – Need Improvement –                           B

800 M – Excellent –                                               A

1500 M – Need much Improvement –               D

Long Jump – Need Improvement –                    B

Triple Jump – Excellent –                                     A+

High Jump – Need much Improvement –         F

Hurdles 100 M – Excellent –                                A+

Hurdles 400 M – Excellent –                                A

Discus – Need much Improvement –                 D

Shot Put – Need much Improvement –              D

Javelin – Need much Improvement –                 F

4 × 100 meters relay – Excellent –                        A+

4 × 400 meters relay – Excellent –                        A+

Team Jamaica is looking good leading up to Olympics 2020. However, there is much work to be done. Women are doing better than Men. Field events have new Life. Team Jamaica Track and Field landscape is poised for a changing of the Guard, if not before Olympics 2020, certainly immediately after.

TOKYO 2020-2 LOGO

 

LFT

TAKEAWAY NACAC Championships 2018

by in Africa, JAMAICA, NACAC, OLYMPICS, TRACK AND FIELD, Uncategorized | 2 Comments

Shanieka Ricketts wins NACAC triple jump gold

The North American, Central American, and Caribbean Championships held in Toronto August 10 – 12, 2018 were from my observation, too small an International group of Athletes to engender significant predictions for Olympics 2020. Regardless, Team Jamaica performance is worthy of Post event commentary.

It did not appear that all Member Countries participated. There were some good performances but overall un-impressive. Top tier athletes were absent. Elaine Thompson and Omar McLeod were not present or at least I saw or heard nothing to the contrary. According to an unofficial count, 369 athletes from 31 countries participated. See the list below, which should encourage a Geography lesson.

Team Jamaica exhibited significant improvement in Field events. I am impressed with the wealth of Talent. The Team came away with 21 medals, seven gold, nine silver, and five bronze.

Shanieka Ricketts, Fedrick Dacres, Traves Smikle, Hansle Parchment, Danielle Williams, Natoya Goule, Tyquendo Tracey, Janieve Russell, Annsert Whyte, Demish Gaye, and Shericka Jackson were definite standouts.

Shanieka Ricketts has stepped up her Game. She won gold in the Triple Jump. That will encourage Male athletes to step up. Tisanna Hickling won bronze in Long Jump. Fedrick Dacres and Traves Smikle  continue to perform at a high level in Discus. O’Dayne Richards won bronze in the Shot Put. Tajay Gayle won silver in Long Jump. Ramone Bailey won bronze in Long Jump.

The Hurdles event has caught on. Performance has improved exponentially. It can only get better and competition is about to get fierce for both Men and Women. Hansle Parchment won gold in the 110M hurdles. Danielle Williams won silver in the Women’s 100 meters hurdles. Janieve Russell won silver in the 400M hurdles. Annsert Whyte won silver in the 400 M Hurdles.

Natoya Goule won silver in the Women’s 800 meters. It is refreshing to see an athlete step away and try to establish a new frontier. Natoya Goule is someone to keep an eye on moving forward. Shericka Jackson continues to shine and won gold in the 200M. She ran well as the anchor for Women’s 4 × 100 meters relay quartet. I applaud her stellar performance.

Tyquendo Tracey won gold in the 100M. Nigel Ellis won bronze in the 200 M. Jonielle Smith won silver in the 100M. Demish Gaye won gold in the 400M. Fitzroy Dunkley won bronze in the 400M. Stephenie Ann McPherson won gold in the 400M. Women’s 4 × 100 meters relay quartet (Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Jura Levy, Jonielle Smith, and Shericka Jackson) won silver. Women’s 4 × 400 meters relay quartet (Stephenie Ann McPherson, Tiffany James, Anastasia Le-Roy, and Christine Day) won silver.

There is much to take away from the performances at NACAC Championships 2018. The coach or coaches responsible for training the Women’s 4 × 400 meters relay team is doing a great job. Over the years that quartet, mix or match, has been competitive or dominant. Perhaps, they should be responsible for recruiting Male athletes to run the 400M exclusively.

Until there is discovery, nurturing, and development of at least three (3) consistent 400M sprinters, running less than 45.0, lack of significant performance in the Men’s 400M race will be obvious. Excellent performance in the 400M event will require men who can consistently run less than 45.0 and women who can consistently run less than 50.0 seconds for the event.

This is a challenge. The 400M race is the most exhausting of the sprints. Demish Gaye won gold in the 400M with a time of 45.47 and Fitzroy Dunkley won bronze in the 400M with a time of 45.76. Both times are respectable but not Olympics 2020 material.  In Olympics 2020, the 400 M races to date will be a battle between Africans, Americans, and Bahamians. There is still time to upset that plan.

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce is back. I was certain she would retire but I was incorrect. Obviously, she missed the stage. Her early performances look good but that amounts to burning off energy. History proves that this welcome back period is short lived. Perhaps she will make it to Olympics 2020. I can argue that she might not make Team Jamaica for Olympics 2020. Team Jamaica Track and Field landscape is poised for a changing of the Guard, if not before Olympics 2020, certainly immediately after.

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce has fans but I think the results of Olympics 2016 say a lot. We all hoped that she had won the Olympics 100M a third consecutive time but that did not happen. She cannot overcome that demon. Hypothetically, if she wins Olympics 100M in 2020 it will not have the same luster.

In addition, Briana Williams, Brianna Lyston, Elaine Thompson, Jonielle Smith, and others will have much to say about her success. Most athletes wait too late to retire. Most recent the Legend Usain Bolt. Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce because of her competitive spirit will do the same. Until then we will support her 100 Percent.

Team Jamaica takeaways and grade by Event based on expectations Olympics 2020:

Men:

Event     Analysis                     Grade

100 M – Need Improvement – C

200 M – Need Improvement – C

400 M – Need Improvement – C

800 M – Need much Improvement – D

1500 M– Need much Improvement – D

Long Jump – Need Improvement – B

Triple Jump – Need much Improvement – D

High Jump – Need much Improvement – F

Hurdles 110 M – Excellent – A+

Hurdles 400 M – Excellent – A

Discus – Excellent – A+

Shot Put – Good – B

Javelin – Need much Improvement – F

4 × 100 meters relay – Need Improvement – C

4 × 400 meters relay – Need Improvement – C

Team Jamaica takeaways and grade by Event based on expectations Olympics 2020:

Women:

Event     Analysis                     Grade

100 M – Need Improvement – C

200 M – Need Improvement – C

400 M – Need Improvement – B

800 M – Excellent – A

1500 M – Need much Improvement – D

Long Jump – Need Improvement – B

Triple Jump – Excellent – A+

High Jump – Need much Improvement – F

Hurdles 100 M – Excellent – A+

Hurdles 400 M – Excellent – A

Discus – Need much Improvement – D

Shot Put – Need much Improvement – D

Javelin – Need much Improvement – F

4 × 100 meters relay – Excellent – A+

4 × 400 meters relay – Excellent – A+

Team Jamaica is looking good leading up to Olympics 2020. Women are doing better than Men. Field events now have new Life.

LFT

SHERICKA JACKSON-NACAC

TAKE AWAY FROM COMMONWEALTH GAMES 2018 – AUSTRALIA

by in ANTHEM, COMMONWEALTH GAMES 2018, ELAINE THOMPSON, FLAG, JAMAICA, OLYMPICS, Shelly Ann Fraser Pryce, SPORTS, TRACK AND FIELD, Uncategorized, Usain Bolt, WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS | 1 Comment

Gold-silver-Discus-640x353

It seems to me, that Jamaicans should be proud of the performance. The team placed 11TH out of 43 teams with 27 Medals in total – 7 Gold, 9 Silver, and 11 Bronze. See the Final performance results. Not too shabby for an Island Nation.

Previously I said, “I am expecting improvement in the Field events such as Long Jump, Triple Jump (Hop, Skip, and Jump), Javelin, Discus, Shot Put, Hammer throw, and High Jump.” Oops, it happened.

Fedrick Dacres and Traves Smikle won gold and silver respectively for Jamaica in the men’s discus. Kimberly Williams won gold in the Triple Jump. Shanieka Ricketts won silver in the Triple Jump. Danniel Thomas-Dodd won gold in the Women’s Shot Put. Aisha Praught-Leer won gold in Women’s 3000 meters steeplechase. Alia Atkinson won silver in the 50 meters breaststroke. The Net Ball team won Bronze.

Clearly significant improvement in Field events, since World Championship 2017. I am impressed with the wealth of Talent on the Female side of the Jamaican Track and Field Ledger. Perhaps, that will get the Male athletes to step up. Very soon, I expect the Men to step forward with stellar performance in Field events.

The Hurdles event has caught on. Ronald Levy won gold in the 110M hurdles. Janieve Russell won gold in the 400M hurdles. Hansle Parchment won silver in the 110M hurdles. Danielle Williams won silver in the Women’s 100 meters hurdles. Jaheel Hyde won bronze in the Men’s 400 meters hurdles. Yanique Thompson won bronze in the Women’s 100 meters hurdles. My expectation is that it will require less effort to improve the performance in Hurdling than it will for additional improvement in Field events. I am wondering who will start throwing the Javelin – someone, anyone, Male or Female. It is a unisex sport.

Shericka Jackson continues to shine and won silver in the Women’s 200 meters. Anastasia Le-Roy won silver in the Women’s 400 meters. Christania Williams won silver in the Women’s 100 meters. Gayon Evans won bronze in the Women’s 100 meters. Javon Francis won bronze in the Men’s 400 meters. Natoya Goule won bronze in the Women’s 800 meters. Natoya Goule is someone to keep an eye on moving forward. Yohan Blake won bronze in the Men’s 100 meters. Women’s 4 × 100 meters relay quartet won silver. Men’s 4 × 100 meters relay won bronze. Men’s 4 × 400 meters relay won bronze. Women’s 4 × 400 meters relay won gold.

That Yohan Blake won bronze in the Men’s 100 meters and Elaine Thompson did not have a good outing by her standards, is cause for concern. There is only so much continuous running in the legs of a Professional sprinter. Yohan Blake might be approaching that point. I think he participates in the 2020 Olympics and then retire. It might be a good idea for Elaine Thompson to switch camp and work with Glen Mills.

The people responsible for training the Women’s 4 × 400 meters relay team is doing a great job. Over the years that quartet, mix or match, has been competitive or dominant. Perhaps, they should be commissioned to recruit Male athletes to run the 400M exclusively. The 400M race needs new stars. Until there is discovery, nurturing, and development of at least three (3) consistent 400M sprinters, lack of significant representation in the Men’s 400M race will be obvious. Excellent performance in the 400M event will require men who will consistently run between 43.01 and 44.5 and women who will consistently run between 48.0 and 49.4. This is a serious challenge. The 400M race is the most exhausting of the sprints.

Having said the above, what are my expectations for the Olympics in 2020? I have none now. It is too early to speculate. I am confident they will take home some Hardware from Olympics 2020.The results from Commonwealth Games 2018 are impressive. Congrats to the entire team!!!

Performance in the Diamond League will determine Olympic 2020 readiness. I think there will be a changing of the Guard in the Sprint events. There is unlikely to be replacements for Usain and Shelly-Ann by 2020. If you considered Usain – Yohan and Elaine- Shelly-Ann One-Two punches, until proven otherwise I have not seen that male or female athlete. I have not seen another Male athlete capable of running sub 10.0 seconds or a Female athlete capable of running sub 11.0 seconds for the 100M. Yohan Blake and Elaine Thompson have demonstrated they can. However, based on recent performances, they are required to prove they still can.

Warning: no one is winning the Men’s 100M in 2020 unless he runs sub 10.0 seconds. No one is winning the Women’s 100M in 2020 unless she runs sub 11.0 seconds. You can put that in the Retirement Fund.

LFT

JAMAICANFLAG WAVING