TOKYO, JAPAN – JULY 31: Elaine Thompson-Herah of Team Jamaica poses after winning the gold medal while competing on Women’s 100m Final during the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at the Olympic Stadium on July 31, 2021 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Yannick Verhoeven/BSR Agency/Getty Images)TOKYO, JAPAN – JULY 31: Elaine Thompson-Herah of Team Jamaica poses after winning the gold medal while competing on Women’s 100m Final during the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at the Olympic Stadium on July 31, 2021 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Yannick Verhoeven/BSR Agency/Getty Images)TOKYO, JAPAN August 1: Elaine Thompson-Herah of Jamaica on the podium with her gold medal, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce of Jamaica with her silver medal and “nShericka Jackson of Jamaica with her bronze medal after the 100 Final for women during the Track and Field competition at the Olympic Stadium at the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympic Games on July 31, 2021 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images)
Fans of Elaine Thompson – Herah received a Signature Performance at the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, confirming her acceptance to the 10.6X Club. Her performance was a Clinic on how to run the 100M and 200M. If Performances could cure COVID-19, her Fans would be One Hundred Percent Healthy. Elaine Thompson – Herah was the Highlight of Olympics 2021. The Spear was burning in Tokyo.
TOKYO, JAPAN – JULY 31: Elaine Thompson-Herah of Jamaica celebrates winning the 100m final for women during the Athletics competition at the Olympic Stadium at the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympic Games on July 31, 2021 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images)TOKYO, JAPAN – AUGUST 03: Elaine Thompson-Herah of Team Jamaica celebrates with her countries flag after winning the gold medal in the Women’s 200m Final on day eleven of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at Olympic Stadium on August 03, 2021 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)
Elaine Thompson – Herah, performed at an extremely high level. She displayed her talent and made Jamaica proud. Before the Olympics, I declared that the Women 100M Final in Tokyo 2021 was on Track for a Time of 10.61 or better. All 100M finalist knew that if their Personal Best (PB) were south of 10.8X, they would be late for Dinner where dinner is the Gold Medal.
TOKYO, JAPAN – JULY 31: Elaine Thompson-Herah of Jamaica celebrates winning the gold after competing in the Women’s 100m final on day eight of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at Olympic Stadium on July 31, 2021 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by The Asahi Shimbun via Getty Images)TOKYO, JAPAN – AUGUST 03: Elaine Thompson-Herah of Team Jamaica celebrates after winning the gold medal in the Women’s 200m Final on day eleven of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at Olympic Stadium on August 03, 2021 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)
Elaine Thompson – Herah performance in the 200M, was stellar and an awesome display of Acceleration, Velocity, and Speed. She accelerated at the start and maintained velocity for the distance. There is no winning coming from behind in the 100M and 200M. Despite the results of all previous performances, Elaine Thompson – Herah came away with Two Gold Medals.
TOKYO, JAPAN – AUGUST 3: Elaine Thompson-Herah of Jamaica wins the Gold Medal during the Women’s 200m Final on day eleven of the athletics events of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at Olympic Stadium on August 3, 2021 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Jean Catuffe/Getty Images)TOKYO, JAPAN – AUGUST 3: Elaine Thompson-Herah of Jamaica wins the Gold Medal during the Women’s 200m Final on day eleven of the athletics events of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at Olympic Stadium on August 3, 2021 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Jean Catuffe/Getty Images)
There is no holding back or keeping anything in Reserve when running the 100M and 200M. Leave it all on the Track. At the start, let your opponents listen for the Gun, you watch the Feet. The moment Opponents lead Foot off Blocks, you BOOGIE. If in the 100M, First 4 Steps “Good morning”, next 4 Steps “Good afternoon”, next 4 Steps “Good Night”. Internal Mantra is “Meet me at the Tape”. If in the 200M, midway the Bend “Good morning”, end of the Bend “Good afternoon”, stabilize and “Good Night”, Internal Mantra is “Meet me at the Tape”.
TOKYO, JAPAN – AUGUST 3: Silver Medalist Christine Mboma of Namibia, Gold Medalist Elaine Thompson-Herah of Jamaica, Bronze Medalist Gabrielle Thomas of USA celebrate following the Women’s 200m Final on day eleven of the athletics events of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at Olympic Stadium on August 3, 2021 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Jean Catuffe/Getty Images)TOKYO, JAPAN – AUGUST 06: Briana Williams, Elaine Thompson-Herah, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and Shericka Jackson of Team Jamaica celebrate winning the gold medal in the Women’s 4 x 100m Relay Final on day fourteen of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at Olympic Stadium on August 06, 2021 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)
Elaine Thompson – Herah is a Class Act Jamaican sprinter. She won the 100M and 200M at the 2016 Rio Olympics and repeated the feat at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. Elaine Thompson – Herah destroyed the Field in both events. Elaine Thompson – Herah, confirmed that she is capable of running 10.61 in the 100M and Fans believe she can produce a time of 21.2 in the 200M.
TOKYO, JAPAN – AUGUST 01: Elaine Thompson-Herah of Team Jamaica poses with her gold medal during the medal ceremony for the Women’s 100m Final on day nine of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at Olympic Stadium on August 01, 2021 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)TOKYO, JAPAN August 1: Elaine Thompson-Herah of Jamaica on the podium with her gold medal after winning the 100 Final for women during the Track and Field competition at the Olympic Stadium at the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympic Games on July 31, 2021 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images)TOKYO, JAPAN August 1: Elaine Thompson-Herah of Jamaica on the podium with her gold medal, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce of Jamaica with her silver medal and “nShericka Jackson of Jamaica with her bronze medal after the 100 Final for women during the Track and Field competition at the Olympic Stadium at the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympic Games on July 31, 2021 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images)
Post Olympics, there were sore losers. Animus was abounding among presumed “Sport Fans” from various Countries towards Jamaican Athletes. Some refuse to acknowledge a stellar performance, with the undertone of – there goes those damn Jamaicans again. However, Takeaway from such negative sentiments is that people are not Anti- Jamaicans but rather hate success.
First-placed Jamaica’s Elaine Thompson-Herah celebrates on the podium with her gold medal after competing in the women’s 100m event during the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at the Olympic Stadium in Tokyo on August 1, 2021. (Photo by Ina FASSBENDER / AFP) (Photo by INA FASSBENDER/AFP via Getty Images)TOPSHOT – Gold medallist Jamaica’s Elaine Thompson-Herah celebrates during the medal ceremony for the women’s 200m event during the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at the Olympic Stadium in Tokyo on August 4, 2021. (Photo by Ina FASSBENDER / AFP) (Photo by INA FASSBENDER/AFP via Getty Images)Jamaica’s Elaine Thompson-Herah poses with her gold medal at the National Stadium in Tokyo on Aug. 4, 2021, following victory in the women’s 200 meters at the Tokyo Olympics the previous day. (Photo by Kyodo News via Getty Images)
LIMA, PERU – AUGUST 08: Shericka Jackson of Jamaica looks on after winning in Women’s 400m Final on Day 13 of Lima 2019 Pan American Games at Athletics Stadium of Villa Deportiva Nacional on August 08, 2019 in Lima, Peru. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)GOLD COAST, AUSTRALIA – APRIL 12: Silver medalist Shericka Jackson of Jamaica looks on during the medal ceremony for the Womens 200 metresduring athletics on day eight of the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games at Carrara Stadium on April 12, 2018 on the Gold Coast, Australia. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
Despite the results of all previous performances, Shericka Jackson has an opportunity to win a Sprint double at Olympics 2021 and come away with Two Gold Medals, “Believe it or not“. It does not matter if you believe, as long as she does. She has the Power and is gradually working on Speed. However, she has to forget about running 400M style.
Track & Field: 121st Penn Relays: U Tech Sherika Jackson victorious after winning College Women’s 4x200M Relay at Franklin Field.
Philadelphia, PA 4/25/2015
CREDIT: Heinz Kluetmeier (Photo by Heinz Kluetmeier /Sports Illustrated via Getty Images)
(Set Number: X159535 TK1 )
The 100M and 200M events are completely different from the 400M. Shericka Jackson, needs to make that adjustment and quickly. There is no winning coming from behind in the 100M and 200M, unless you are Usain Bolt and were slow getting out of the Blocks. In the 100M and 200M, there is a 99.99 percent chance, that if you are late out of the Blocks you will be late for Dinner. Dinner is the Gold Medal.
DOHA, QATAR – OCTOBER 05: Shericka Jackson of Jamaica, gold, crosses the finish line in the Women’s 4×100 Metres Relay during day nine of 17th IAAF World Athletics Championships Doha 2019 at Khalifa International Stadium on October 05, 2019 in Doha, Qatar. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
There is no holding back or keeping anything in Reserve when running the 100M and 200M. Leave it all on the Track. At the start, let your opponents listen for the Gun, you watch the Feet. The moment Opponents Foot is off Blocks, you BOOGIE. If in the 100M, First 4 Steps “Good morning”, next 4 Steps “Good afternoon”, next 4 Steps “Good Night”. Internal Mantra is “Meet me at the Tape”. If in the 200M, midway the Bend “Good morning”, end of the Bend “Good afternoon”, stabilize and “Good Night”, Internal Mantra is “Meet me at the Tape”.
Track & Field: 121st Penn Relays: U Tech Sherika Jackson victorious after winning College Women’s 4x200M Relay at Franklin Field.
Philadelphia, PA 4/25/2015
CREDIT: Heinz Kluetmeier (Photo by Heinz Kluetmeier /Sports Illustrated via Getty Images)
(Set Number: X159535 TK1 )
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – AUGUST 17: Elaine Thompson of Jamaica (2nd-R) competes on her way to winning the gold medal in the Women’s 200m Final ahead of Dafne Schippers of the Netherlands on Day 12 of the Rio 2016 Olympic Games at the Olympic Stadium on August 17, 2016 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)Gold medallist Jamaica’s Elaine Thompson celebrates winning the Women’s 200m Final during the athletics event at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games at the Olympic Stadium in Rio de Janeiro on August 17, 2016. / AFP / Adrian DENNIS (Photo credit should read ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)Jamaica’s Elaine Thompson celebrates after winning the women’s 100m race during the AG Insurance Memorial Van Damme athletics event, the last meeting of the IAAF Diamond League competition, on September 1, 2017 in Brussels. / AFP PHOTO / BELGA / JASPER JACOBS / Belgium OUT (Photo credit should read JASPER JACOBS/AFP via Getty Images)
Fans of Elaine Thompson – Herah are waiting for a signature Performance to confirm her acceptance to the 10.6X Club. Her performance in the 2021 Olympic Trials was impressive. She will be a contender in Tokyo 2021 Olympics. Her performance in Rio 2016 was exceptional. She is one of the few Female athletes who can run the 100M in less than 11.00 seconds and has proven that she can run the 200M in less than 22.00 seconds. She will perform well in Olympics 2021. Elaine Thompson – Herah, has an excellent chance of being on the Podium.
Absent injuries, she will to be a Factor in the Women 100M and 200M events in Tokyo. Her performances in the Jamaica National Championships were competitive and I anticipate improvement. The Jamaica National Championships – 2021, except for the Women 200M and 400M Finals, did not produce Times and Performances anticipated. Elaine Thompson – Herah, has some work to do but nothing to be nervous about. The Spear is burning in Tokyo.
TOPSHOT – Jamaica’s Elaine Thompson competes in the athletics women’s 200m semi-final during the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games at the Carrara Stadium on the Gold Coast on April 11, 2018. / AFP PHOTO / Adrian DENNIS (Photo credit should read ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)
In 2008, 2012, 2016, and 2017 we saw the best athletes on the planet participate in three Olympics and World Championships. Elaine Thompson – Herah, was a big part of the 2016 Olympics. She performed at an extremely high level, displaying her talent and making Jamaica proud.
Athletes planning to be in the Women 100M Finals in Tokyo with a Personal Best (PB) slower than 10.8X, should STAY HOME or skip the event. Participating in the event with a PB south of 10.8X, will make you late for Dinner. The Women’s 100M Final in Tokyo 2021 is on Track for a Time of 10.61 or better. This Athlete showed that the Time is possible.
Jamaica’s Elaine Thompson reacts after competing in the Women’s 100m heats at the 2019 IAAF World Athletics Championships at the Khalifa International stadium in Doha on September 28, 2019. (Photo by Kirill KUDRYAVTSEV / AFP) (Photo credit should read KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP via Getty Images)
DOHA, QATAR – SEPTEMBER 29: Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce of Jamaica celebrates winning the Women’s 100 Metres final during day three of 17th IAAF World Athletics Championships Doha 2019 at Khalifa International Stadium on September 29, 2019 in Doha, Qatar. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)LIMA, PERU – AUGUST 09: Gold medalist Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce of Jamaica celebrates after Women’s 200m Final on Day 14 of Lima 2019 Pan American Games at Athletics Stadium of Villa Deportiva Nacional on August 09, 2019 in Lima, Peru. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)DOHA, QATAR – SEPTEMBER 29: Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce of Jamaica celebrates with her son Zyon after winning the Women’s 100 Metres final during day three of 17th IAAF World Athletics Championships Doha 2019 at Khalifa International Stadium on September 29, 2019 in Doha, Qatar. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)
If you are a Female Track and Field Athlete intending to be in the 100M Finals in Tokyo and your Personal Best (PB) is slower than 10.8, STAY HOME or skip the event. It will be more difficult in 2024. In 2024, expectations are the winning time in the Women’s 100M Final will be 10.5.
Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce is a Vanguard for Jamaican Female Track and Field. Wish her well in Tokyo 2021. We thought she would retire after Olympics 2016 but was incorrect. Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce is back. She came, she saw, and conquered. She performed victoriously, hugged competitors, shook hands, and prepares for more challenges. Despite apparent dominance, she remains respectful and conducts herself as Class Citizen of the International Olympic Community.
In 2008, 2012, 2016, and 2017 we saw the best athletes on the planet participate in three Olympics and three World Championships. Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce performed at an extremely high level, displaying her talent and making Jamaica proud. Team Jamaica Track and Field landscape is poised for a changing of the Guard, after Olympics 2021.
Moving forward it will be difficult to make it to the Olympics representing Jamaica in the 100M event – Female and Male. The Era of Speed Merchants is well on the way. Men and Women who can run fast will migrate and some will change Nationality in pursuit of their Sprint dream. They will become Track and Field Mercenaries.
LIMA, PERU – AUGUST 07: Natoya Goule of Jamaica celebrates after winning gold in Women’s 800m Final on Day 12 of Lima 2019 Pan American Games at Athletics Stadium of Villa Deportiva Nacional on August 07, 2019 in Lima, Peru. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)GOLD COAST, AUSTRALIA – APRIL 13: Bronze medalist Natoya Goule of Jamaica celebrates during the medal ceremony for the Womens 800 metres during athletics on day nine of the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games at Carrara Stadium on April 13, 2018 on the Gold Coast, Australia. (Photo by Mark Kolbe/Getty Images)WATERTOWN, MA – MAY 23: Natoya Goule of USA, leads ahead of Ajeé Wilson of USA, in the Womens 600m during the adidas Boost Boston Games and World Athletics Continental Tour event on May 23, 2021 in Watertown, Massachusetts. (Photo by Adam Glanzman/Getty Images)
Natoya Goule is a star. She will be a force to reckon with in Japan. She has improved her display of confidence at the start Line and now wave with exuberance. Despite finishing sixth in Doha 2019, she continues to improve her performance in the 800 Meters. Goule will be ready to win at Olympics 2021. She will make more VLOGS after the Olympics. It is refreshing to see an athlete step away and establish a new frontier. She is a Burning Spear and has my vote for flag bearer in the opening ceremony. Below are things that Natoya Goule can do to ensure victory.
Think of the Records for the event and aim for the fastest time. World time is 1:53:28. Olympics is 1:53:43.
The following Splits are recommended, 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 her Pace. If the Lead changes, follow that leader. If the Pace is too slow, go by and stay at her Pace (one she has proven she can maintain during Training). Do not Jockey for the lead it will ruin Stamina.
Only exert enough energy to maintain Momentum. The mission is to win and break the Record if she can.
Next 50M (100M to the Finish Line) get ready to sprint. This is like a running start in Relays but longer. Ask a member of the 4 x 100 Relay team to work with her on that in Training. Be serious it will make a difference.
Final 50M run as fast as she can to the Finish. Leave it all on the Track. Focus on the Finish Line. The only Race she is running is the current. Past and future races are of no concern. This is where work on Sprinting will help.
In Training and Competition Imagine, she is in the Olympics 2021 800M Final. See herself winning the ultimate Prize.
Develop that strategy and run every Race accordingly. Tweak it a little where necessary.
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 including the Marathon. There are many things happening in the world, from the Caribbean to South China Sea but now is the time to support and encourage all Athletes preparing to perform in the Tokyo 2021 Olympics. Olympics 2021 is schedule for July 23 to August 8 2021. There are Geo-Political issues in the Region that could have an impact on the event but conditions not expected to deteriorate significantly, before September 2021.
Kristina Marie Knott will be an inspiration to her Teammates. Her performances In the Women’s 100M and 200M is impressive. In the Women’s 400M Hurdles, Robyn Lauren Brown has potential. Her technique is good but needs to work on Speed. The 4x100M Women’s Team looks ready to compete with a little bit of improvement. The Women’s Team appears competitive. Women’s Pole Vault will have an entrant from the Philippines that might surprise Tokyo. There are Women Athletes whose mettle will be obvious in Olympics 2024.
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 major work ahead to improve and be successful in Olympics 2021. The Men’s Team might be competitive in the Field but probably not on the Track.
In the 400M Hurdles, Eric Cray with a time of 50.21 is the best for that event in the Philippines. He has Speed but Technique needs improvement. The 110M Hurdles features Clinton Kingsley Bautista with a time of 13.98 but with tremendous upside. For the100M, Anfernee Talaboc Lopena with a Personal best of 10.61 is the best I observed. He has potential but might not have enough time to be competitive in Olympics 2021. T Anthony Beram, with a time of 20.83 in the 200M and 46.39 in the 400M, in 2021 looks impressive. In the 800M, Carter James Lilly at 1:47.52 with a little bit of work could improve his time to 1:45:00 and be competitive.
Previously the prevailing thought was Jamaica could win about nine medals but base on the performances in the 2021 Olympic Trials, a review of Expectations might be necessary. The following is my expectations of prominent Jamaican athletes as well as some New Faces.
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 2021. She might make more Videos after. It is refreshing to see an athlete step away and establish a new frontier. She is a Burning Spear.
Remona Burchell has potential but base on performance in the recent Olympic Trials, it is unlikely she will be on the Podium in Olympics 2021. Base on her accoladescompetitive performance was expected. Her challenge is can she run faster than 11.03 seconds for the 100M. Her 200M performance of 23.92 is hopeful. However, making the Team might be a Game-Time decision.
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.
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 2021 might be her final quest for Olympic stardom.
Kimberly Williams is an excellent Triple Jump athlete. However, the Olympics and World Championships have not seen her best performances. Perhaps, 2021 will be the year. The fans certainly hope she makes the Team.
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 2021.
The following is my expectations of prominent Jamaican Male athletes at Olympics 2021.
Yohan Blake did not have a good outing in the 2018 Commonwealth Games. His performance in Doha 2019 did not meet expectations. Olympics 2021 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 2021 Olympics and then retire. Suffice to say, no athlete is winning the Men’s 100M in Olympics 2021 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 2021. He has support in his consideration to compete in the 400M Hurdles. However, I have yet to see a recent performance in that event.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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 accoladescompetitive 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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