Jamaica Athletics Invitational Team Deems Event A Success

Following what organisers believe was a successful staging of the Jamaica Athletics Invitational (JAI); Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Ludlow Watts is heaping praise on the track and field fraternity for its support of the event last Saturday (May 11).

“The performances of the athletes and the fan support were indications of what a great meet is supposed to be. We put in a lot of work over the last two months to stage this inaugural edition and we are pleased with the results,” says Watts.

Fans and athletes were pleased

Athletes’ Liaison, Marvin Anderson also thinks the event was a successful one. “The athletes were pleased with the hospitality and competition and the fans’ show of support was evidence of what the event had to offer.”

Anderson went on to add that “we are already looking forward to the 2025 version.”

Three major goals were defined for the inaugural JAI meet by the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA). These include bringing quality competitions for the enjoyment of track and field fans, providing a place for athletes to excel, and promoting Jamaica as a top sports destination on the international level.

Stellar performances were on display

The inaugural sports event showcased stellar performances from top international athletes like Nigeria’s Tobi Amusan who set a world-leading time in the women’s 100m hurdles, clocking 12.40 seconds and British sprinter Dina Asher-Smith won the women’s 200m with a time of 22.51 seconds, narrowly defeating Jessika Gbai. In the men’s 200m, Great Britain’s Zharnel Hughes recorded a sub-20-second finish, winning in 19.96 seconds.

As the world prepares for the Summer Olympics in a few weeks, the national championships is a key target for all athletes. President, Garth Gayle is pleased that the JAI delivered on its promise of exciting competition and fan engagement. We ask that track and field fans continue to support the athletes for all the upcoming events.

Photo – Jaydon Hibbert Media