KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC – Jamaica’s Prime Minister
Miller has hailed the country’s athletes for their performance at last month’s IAAF World Championships, describing them as inspirations to the entire nation.
In a statement to Parliament, Simpson Miller said the athletes had been examples of “hard work, discipline, teamwork and determination”, adding that their accomplishments had been a reminder of the value of discipline and dedication.
“All Jamaica’s athletes who competed in the World Championships distinguished themselves and contributed valiantly to the country’s illustrious performance winning 12 medals with an all-time high of seven gold, two silver and three bronze,” the country’s leader said.
“Their stellar achievements represent a clear reminder of the outcome and benefit of hard work, discipline, dedication, ambition, faith and a focus.
“I am so proud of this memorable performance of all my children and Jamaica’s young men and women, during the entire championship. “In the journey for greater national development, the entire nation can take inspiration from the examples of hard work, discipline, teamwork and determination demonstrated yet again by Jamaica’s athletes.”
Jamaica were outstanding across all disciplines but as usual, were at the forefront of the sprints where Usain Bolt spearheaded their success by repeating as sprint champion in the 100 and 200 metres events. Defending women’s 200m champion, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, also dominated that event to win again while there was gold for the men’s sprint relay team and the women’s 4×400 team.
“All Jamaicans felt the mix of emotions including anxiety, hope, and purposeful determination, as our athletes lined up and competed in event after event,” Simpson Miller continued. “I am sure that every Member of this Honourable House on both sides of the Aisle will agree with me that our athletes in Beijing made us proud to be Jamaicans.“On behalf of a grateful and supremely proud nation, I commend Jamaica’s sportsmen and sportswomen for their dedication and outstanding representation of our nation and our people.
“The country’s athletes across various sporting disciplines continue to give of their best. They embody the hopes, dreams and aspirations of the nation and represent the very best of our culture and talents.”
Simpson Miller singled out Bolt, noting the 28-year-old had “cemented his place at the very pinnacle of Sport”, and Fraser-Pryce who she said remained “consistent in her representation of personal and national excellence.”
