The athletics world mourns the loss of George Vincent Rhoden, a Jamaican sporting icon and two-time Olympic gold medalist, who passed away at the age of 97 on August 24, 2024. Rhoden was the last surviving member of Jamaica's historic 4x400m relay team that clinched gold at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, marking a significant moment in Jamaica’s rich athletic history.

 Born on December 13, 1926, in Kingston, Jamaica, Rhoden’s journey to Olympic greatness began in the late 1940s, where he emerged as one of the leading long sprinters of his era. Alongside his compatriots Arthur Wint and Herb McKenley, Rhoden helped establish Jamaica as a dominant force in athletics during the post-war period.

 Rhoden first competed in the 1948 London Olympics, where he participated in the 100m and 400m events. Although he did not secure a medal in London, it was a precursor to the greatness that would follow. Rhoden and his teammates were expected to perform strongly in the 4x400m relay, but a muscle injury to Wint during the final dashed their hopes of a medal.

 Undeterred, Rhoden continued to build on his successes. On August 22, 1950, he set a new world record in the 400m, clocking 45.8 seconds in Eskilstuna, Sweden. His dominance in the 400m was further cemented by his victories in the AAU championships from 1949 to 1951 and the NCAA championships while at Morgan State University, where he claimed titles in the 220-yard (200m) and 440-yard (400m) events.

 Rhoden’s crowning achievement came at the 1952 Summer Olympics in Helsinki, where he was a pre-race favorite in the 400m. In a thrilling race, Rhoden narrowly edged out his fellow Jamaican and close friend, Herb McKenley, to claim the gold medal. But Rhoden’s Olympic glory did not end there. As the anchor leg of Jamaica’s 4x400m relay team, he led his team to victory, securing a second gold medal and setting a new world record of 3:03.9. This victory was especially sweet, as it came against the United States, the country where Rhoden had made his home after moving to San Francisco.

 Rhoden’s legacy is one of perseverance, excellence, and national pride. His achievements paved the way for future generations of Jamaican athletes, setting a standard of excellence that continues to inspire.

 As the last surviving member of that legendary 1952 relay team—comprising Rhoden, Herb McKenley, Arthur Wint, and Les Laing—his passing marks the end of an era for Jamaican athletics. Rhoden’s contributions to the sport, both on and off the track, will be remembered as a cornerstone of Jamaica's rich sporting heritage.

 George Rhoden is survived by his family, friends, and a grateful nation that will forever honor his contributions to Jamaica's sporting legacy.

The 2024 Tampere Motonet Grand Prix in Finland was electrified on Sunday as Jamaica’s Omar McLeod and Kadrian Goldson delivered exciting victories in their respective events, while Britany Anderson continued her inspiring comeback journey with a podium finish in the 100m hurdles.

McLeod, the 2016 Olympic champion, showcased his champion’s spirit in the 110m hurdles, battling through a stiff headwind of -1.1m/s to claim victory in 13.47 seconds. Despite being out of competition since the Jamaican national championships in June, where he clocked a season’s best of 13.22, McLeod’s performance in Finland was a testament to his resolve.

The race wasn’t without its challenges. McLeod admitted feeling "rusty," but his class shone through as he comfortably outpaced Finland’s Elmo Lakka, who finished second in 13.72, and Manuel Mordi, who took third in 13.78.

“It was very good. I haven’t run in two months, so it feels good to get this race in before the Diamond League next week,” McLeod said, his trademark smile breaking through. “The conditions weren’t ideal. I could feel the headwind the entire time. It was ridiculous,” he laughed, “but it was a great race, I finished healthy. It feels good to be out here again.”

Adding to the excitement, McLeod’s training partner, Britany Anderson, continued her steady return from knee surgery with a strong third-place finish in the 100m hurdles. Anderson, the 2022 World Championships silver medalist, clocked 12.97 seconds in a tightly contested race, just behind Mariam Abdul-Rashid, who took second in 12.96. Finland’s Reetta Hurske claimed victory with a time of 12.87.

But the day wasn’t over for the Jamaicans. Goldson delivered a thrilling performance in the men’s 100m dash, turning the tables on his American rivals. After finishing second to J.T. Smith (10.18) in his preliminary heat with a time of 10.21, Goldson lined up for the final determined to make his mark.

In a nail-biting finish, Goldson surged ahead to cross the line in 10.30 seconds, narrowly edging out Coby Hilton, who finished second in 10.31, and J.T. Smith, who took third in 10.33.

Goldson’s victory was a statement, a demonstration of his ability to rise to the occasion when it mattered most, leaving his American competitors in his wake.

Amir Thompson, the 16-year-old son of Barbadian Olympian Obadele Thompson and American sprint legend Marion Jones, has committed to the University of Texas for the upcoming academic year. With impressive personal bests of 10.50 seconds in the 100m and 21.12 seconds in the 200m, Amir is already showing signs of following in the footsteps of his illustrious parents.

 Amir’s father, Obadele Thompson, is a renowned sprinter who won the bronze medal in the 100m at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. Obadele's Olympic success was preceded by a stellar collegiate career at the University of Texas-El Paso (UTEP), where he won four individual NCAA sprint titles and set two NCAA records. He also set world records in the 55m and the World Junior 100m. Obadele's achievements earned him induction into several Halls of Fame, including the UTEP Track and Field Hall of Fame in 2007, and the UTEP Athletics and Drake Relays Halls of Fame in 2011. Beyond athletics, Obadele graduated summa cum laude from UTEP in economics and marketing and later earned his Juris Doctor (J.D.) from the University of Texas School of Law. He currently practices international arbitration and litigation.

 Amir’s mother, Marion Jones, is one of the most famous sprinters of her generation. She won gold at the 1997 World Championships in the 100m and again at the 1999 World Championships in Seville, Spain. At the 2000 Sydney Olympics, Jones initially won three gold medals and two bronze medals, but these were later stripped after she admitted to lying to federal investigators about her knowledge of performance-enhancing drugs during the BALCO scandal.

 Despite the challenges faced by his parents, Amir is carving out his own path in the world of athletics. His commitment to the University of Texas marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in his burgeoning career. The University of Texas has a storied history in track and field, and with the guidance of top coaches and access to world-class facilities, Amir is well-positioned to develop his talents further.

 Amir’s decision to attend the University of Texas is a nod to his father’s legacy, as Obadele also pursued his legal education at the University of Texas School of Law after his successful athletic career. The younger Thompson will now have the opportunity to build on his father’s legacy while forging his own identity in the sport.

 As he prepares to join the Longhorns, Amir Thompson carries the weight of a storied lineage but also the promise of a bright future. The track and field community will be watching closely as he begins his collegiate journey, eager to see how this young talent will develop under the guidance of one of the top athletic programs in the United States.

Caribbean athletes delivered standout performances at the Silesia Diamond League meeting in Poland on Sunday, with victories and record-breaking feats highlighting a successful day for the region.

Jamaican hurdler Ackera Nugent bounced back from the disappointment of not finishing in the final of the 100m hurdles at the 2024 Paris Olympics, capturing victory in the event with a meet record time of 12.29 seconds. Nugent, who came close to matching her personal best and national record of 12.28, showcased her return to top form, having already signaled her intent in the preliminary heats with an impressive 12.30. The USA’s Grace Stark finished second in 12.37, narrowly edging out another Jamaican, Danielle Williams, who clocked 12.38 for third place. Olympic champion Masai Russell of the USA was fourth in 12.40.

Tia Clayton added to Jamaica’s success with a wind-aided 10.83 to win the 100m in a thrilling blanket finish. She finished just ahead of Ivory Coast’s Marie Jose Ta Lou-Smith, who was credited with the same time, while the USA’s Tamari Davis was a close third in 10.84.

Olympic champion Marileidy Paulino of the Dominican Republic continued her winning ways, dominating the 400m with a meet record time of 48.66 seconds. Paulino’s masterclass performance saw her comfortably ahead of Olympic silver medalist Salwa Eid Naser, who finished second in 49.23. Poland’s Natalia Kaczmarek claimed third in 49.95. Barbados' Sada Williams, who has had a strong season, finished eighth in 50.82.

Jamaica’s Shanieka Ricketts claimed victory in the triple jump, leaping out to 14.50m. Cuba’s Leyanis Perez Hernandez was second with 14.42m, while Italy’s Dariya Derkach took third with 14.02m. Ricketts' win added to the Caribbean’s tally on a day that saw multiple triumphs for the region.

Romaine Beckford of Jamaica set a lifetime best in the high jump with a clearance of 2.29m, securing second place behind Italy’s Gianmarco Tamberi, who won the event with a jump of 2.31m.

In the men’s 110m hurdles, Jamaican Rasheed Broadbell narrowly missed out on victory, finishing second to American Olympic champion Grant Holloway. Holloway clocked 13.04 to Broadbell’s season-best 13.05. Broadbell, however, expressed concern after the race, revealing he might have suffered a groin injury during the event. “I got close but I started to feel my groin,” Broadbell said. “No, it’s not good.” The USA’s Daniel Roberts was third in 13.24, with Jamaica’s Orlando Bennett finishing fifth in 13.35.

Jamaica’s Shian Salmon, Janieve Russell, and Andrennette Knight delivered strong performances in the women’s 400m hurdles, finishing fourth, fifth, and sixth respectively. The event was won by Dutch star Femke Bol, who set a meet record of 52.13.

In the men’s 100m, Olympic bronze medalist Fred Kerley of the USA won in a meet record 9.87, just ahead of Kenya’s Ferdinand Omanyala (9.88) and Jamaica’s Ackeem Blake, who equaled his lifetime best of 9.89 for third place.

Jamaican sprinter Kishane Thompson was a notable absentee in the 200m, where Olympic champion Letsile Tebogo of Botswana set a meet record of 19.82. Alexander Ogando of the Dominican Republic finished second in a national record and personal best of 19.86.

In a meet filled with exceptional performances, Norway’s Jakob Ingerbrigsten set the only world record of the day, running an astonishing 7:17.55 to win the 3000m. 

Mondo Duplantis continued his world-record streak by establishing yet another mark in the pole vault. The remarkable Swede cleared 6.26m to win an other competitive event.

The Silesia Diamond League meeting was a memorable event for Caribbean athletes, who not only claimed victories but also set records, proving once again the region’s strength and talent on the global athletics stage.

Newly crowned Olympic 200m champion Letsile Tebogo has his sights set on Usain Bolt’s 200m world record in the near future.

Bolt, who retired in 2017, has now held the title as the fastest man ever over 200m for 15 years thanks to his otherworldly 19.19 done to win gold at the 2009 World Championships in Berlin.

The 21-year-old Botswanan ran a personal best and African record 19.46 to claim his first Olympic title recently in Paris.

Tebogo’s time is the ninth fastest in history and makes him the fifth fastest man ever over the distance.

Most recently, Tebogo cruised to an impressive 19.64 to take the win at the Lausanne Diamond League on Thursday.

In an interview with The Inside Lane after Thursday’s race, Tebogo was asked about Bolt’s world record.

“I see it but I don’t want to put myself under that pressure. If it comes it will come eventually,” he said.

In terms of a timeline, Tebogo said the ideal time to try and go after it would be in about three or four years.

“We don’t have to push it this year or next year. Probably when we are 24, that’s when we could attempt something like that,” he said.

“I don’t think it will take long. Looking at what I did today and what I did in the 200m final in Paris, I don’t think it will take that long because I could see it. It’s about 10 metres away from me,” he added.

Tebogo’s next race will be at the Silesia Diamond League on Sunday.

 Jamaican Olympian Junelle Bromfield has bravely spoken out about the online abuse she has been enduring, largely stemming from her relationship with American sprinter and Olympic 100m champion Noah Lyles.

The couple, who have been together for several years, have faced scrutiny, particularly from some Jamaicans, after Lyles mentioned in a podcast interview that Bromfield occasionally shares updates with him about developments involving her fellow Jamaican athletes.

The revelation sparked a wave of cyberbullying directed at Bromfield, leading her to address the issue publicly on Instagram. In a powerful post, Bromfield shared the painful experiences she has faced, both growing up and in recent weeks.

"I grew up hearing black is not beautiful, your hair is dry, your mouth is too big, your forehead too high, and when you throw all those insults behind you and start walking with confidence, the best compliment you get is 'you're pretty for a black girl,'" Bromfield wrote.

"I honestly thought we were past colorism in Jamaica, especially as a nation that is filled with black people. I have been getting cyberbullied for weeks, and when it gets talked about, I’m a liar because no Jamaican was coming for my features."

Bromfield continued by offering a message of encouragement to others who may be facing similar challenges. "I could go off ranting, but I’m just here to tell all the girls/women on my profile that you’re beautiful no matter your shade, shape, or size, and for the little black girls, don’t wait on anybody to tell you that you’re beautiful to believe it."

Lyles, who has been vocal in his support for Bromfield, took to Instagram to defend his girlfriend and highlight her strength and resilience. "I just want to say how incredibly proud I am of my GF and give her the flowers she deserves now ?," Lyles wrote in a heartfelt post. "She has been through so much in her life that I could never imagine fighting through."

Lyles, 27, expressed his admiration for how Bromfield has handled the negativity directed at her, particularly from people in her own country. "Beyond that, she is a survivor, 2x Olympian, Olympic medalist, multi-world championship medalist, and has been representing Jamaica on the world stage since she was 8 years old," he noted.

He also condemned the vitriol Bromfield has faced, adding, "This woman has been attacked by people who have never met her, heard her name before, never seen her smile, or heard what she believes in. But she keeps moving forward knowing that God will always make a way. That’s why God keeps blessing her!"

Grenada’s javelin bronze medallist Anderson Peters and Jamaica’s 100m hurdles bronze medallist Rasheed Broadbell continued their rich vein of form from the Paris Olympic Games as they secured victories on what was a fairly decent outing for Caribbean athletes at the Wanda Diamond League Meet in Lausanne, Switzerland, on Thursday.

Peters launched the instrument to a new meet record of 90.61m to better the previous best of 90.16m set by Trinidad and Tobago’s Keshorn Walcott in 2015. The Grenadian stalwart won ahead of India’s Neeraj Chopra (89.49 m), with Germany’s Julian Weber (87.08m) in third.

On the track, Broadbell again demonstrated his class to win the 110m hurdles in 13.10s, upstaging American World and Olympic champion Grant Holloway (13.14s), while compatriot Hansle Parchment (13.23s) closed well for third.

Puerto Rico’s Olympic bronze medallist Jasmine Camacho-Quinn (12.35s) was also in winning form in the women's 100m hurdles, as Jamaica’s Ackera Nugent produced a credible performance on her Diamond League debut for third. Nugent, who failed to finish at the Paris Olympic Games after hitting an obstacle, clocked 12.38s, the same as second-placed American Grace Stark.

Reigning World champion Danielle Williams (12.53s) was fifth.

Puerto Rico's Jasmine Camacho-Quinn won the women's 100m hurdles.

Jamaica’s trio of Rushell Clayton (53.32s), Janieve Russell (54.38s), and Andrenette Knight (54.93s) were second, third, and fourth, respectively, in the women’s 400m hurdles won by Dutchwoman Femke Bol in a new meet record of 52.25s. She lowered her previous best of 52.76s set last year.

Another Jamaican, Tia Clayton (11.10s), placed fifth in the women’s 100m, won by Great Britain’s Dina Asher-Smith in a season’s best 10.88s. American Tamari Davis (10.97s) and Switzerland’s Mujinga Kambundji (11.06s) were second and third.

Meanwhile, Dominican Republic’s Alexander Ogando (19.94s) and Trinidad and Tobago’s Jereem Richards (21.10s), both season’s best times, were fourth and fifth in the men’s 200m. The event was won by Botswana’s Olympic champion Letsile Tebogo in 19.64s, ahead of the American duo of Erriyon Knighton (19.78s) and Fred Kerley (19.86s).

In the women’s 800m, St Vincent and the Grenadines’ Shafiqua Maloney (1:59.28) and Jamaica’s Natoya Goule-Toppin (1:59.68), were sixth and eighth, respectively, as Kenya’s Olympic bronze medallist Mary Moraa (1:57.91) finished tops. Great Britain’s Georgia Bell (1:58.53) and Jemma Reekie (1:58.73) were second and third, respectively.

Jamaicans Rushell Clayton and Janieve Russell were second and third in the women's 400m hurdles.

Elsewhere in the field, Olympic silver medallist Wayne Pinnock secured Jamaica’s best finish in the long jump as he cut the sand at 8.01m, again finishing behind Olympic champion Miltiadis Tentoglou (8.06m) of Greece, while Switzerland’s Simon Ehammer (7.99m) was third.

The other Jamaican competitors, Tajay Gayle (7.92m) and Carey McLeod (7.82 m), were fourth and seventh, respectively.

Danniel Thomas-Dodd’s struggles continued as she placed fifth in the women’s shot with a best heave of 18.78m. The event was won by American Chase Jackson, who achieved a season’s best mark of 20.64s to top Germany’s Olympic champion Yemisi Ogunleye (19.55m) and Canada’s Sarah Mitton (19.52m).

Jamaica’s Lamara Distin only managed to clear 1.88m for seventh in the women’s high jump, which was won by Urkaine’s Olympic champion Yaroslava Mahuchikh at a height of 1.99m. Australia’s Olympic bronze and silver medallists, Eleanor Patterson (1.96m) and Nicola Olyslagers (1.92m), were second and third, respectively.

Brendon Rodney, fresh off his gold medal triumph as part of Canada’s 4x100m relay team at the Paris 2024 Olympics, is set to embark on a new chapter that bridges his illustrious sprinting career with his passion for education and athlete development. The Toronto-born sprinter, whose parents hail from Jamaica, has been appointed as the Assistant Athletics Director at G.C. Foster College of Sport in Spanish Town, Jamaica—a role that not only brings him closer to his roots but also allows him to shape the future of athletics on the island.

For Rodney, this appointment is more than just a job; it’s a homecoming. Although he’s represented Canada on the world stage, including winning an Olympic silver medal at Tokyo 2020 and a world championship gold in 2022, Rodney has always maintained a deep connection to Jamaica. Training on the island under the watchful eye of Maurice Wilson, a veteran coach with a storied history at the Olympics and World Championships, Rodney has experienced first-hand the rich athletic culture that Jamaica is known for.

But Rodney’s connection to Jamaica extends beyond the track. Over the past year, he’s not only honed his speed and technique on Jamaican soil, but he’s also immersed himself in the academic community at G.C. Foster College, teaching courses and sharing his expertise with the next generation of athletes. His involvement with the college deepened further when he partnered with the Canadian High Commission in Kingston to launch the Brendon Rodney Foundation, providing scholarships to deserving students—a testament to his commitment to education and empowerment.

In his new role at G.C. Foster, Rodney is poised to leverage his experiences as an elite athlete and his academic background—a master’s degree in exercise science from Long Island University—to elevate the college’s athletics program. His responsibilities will be far-reaching: from overseeing the development of student-athletes to ensuring that the college’s sports teams, coaches, and facilities meet international standards. Perhaps most importantly, Rodney will play a key role in recruiting talent and managing the disbursement of scholarships, helping to provide opportunities for young athletes to thrive.

"G.C. Foster has been more than just a training ground for me; it’s become a part of who I am as an athlete and a mentor," Rodney shared, reflecting on his journey. "I’m excited to take on this role and to give back to the community that has supported me throughout my career."

Rodney’s journey from the Olympic podium to the halls of G.C. Foster College is a powerful narrative of full-circle fulfillment. It underscores the importance of investing in the next generation and the profound impact that athletes can have when they transition from competition to mentorship. His presence at G.C. Foster is not just about enhancing the college’s reputation but about instilling a sense of possibility and ambition in young athletes who aspire to follow in his footsteps.

As Rodney takes on this leadership role, he carries with him the hopes of nurturing the next wave of Jamaican and Caribbean athletes, ensuring that the legacy of excellence he has contributed to on the track continues to thrive off it as well. The transition from sprinter to educator and administrator is a testament to his dedication, not just to his sport, but to the broader community that has always been part of his journey.

Multiple Olympic gold medalist Veronica Campbell-Brown, through her Veronica Campbell-Brown (VCB) Foundation, hosted a highly successful Back to School Health Fair and Wellness event at her alma mater, Vere Technical High School, on Saturday, August 17. The event, held in partnership with Jamaica's Ministry of Health, saw hundreds of community members receiving essential health services ahead of the new school year.

The health fair provided a wide range of medical services, with professionals conducting 115 medical exams, 95 immunizations, 50 cholesterol checks, and 42 HIV tests.  Students also received back-to-school supplies. The comprehensive nature of the event underscored the foundation’s commitment to improving the health and well-being of the community, particularly for students preparing to return to school.

In a statement from the VCB Foundation, organizers expressed their gratitude to all those who contributed to the event’s success: "A huge thank you to our incredible partners, volunteers, and everyone who made our Back to School Health Fair and Wellness event a success. Over 200 people served and 440-plus services offered. Together, we are building a healthier and stronger community! We are looking forward to next year!"

The non-profit organization, which is dedicated to empowering the next generation by providing educational resources and mentorship to high school students in need, continues to make a significant impact through initiatives like the health fair. Campbell-Brown, who is a two-time Olympic 200m gold medalist, and her husband Omar were actively involved as volunteers, offering support and spreading joy among the several hundred patrons in attendance. The event also featured entertainment, adding to the positive atmosphere and making it a memorable occasion for all involved.

Reflecting on the event, Campbell-Brown expressed her gratitude and ambition for future editions. "I am grateful for the support of the VCB Foundation. Let us make the event even more impactful next year," she said.

The success of the health fair was made possible by the generous support of several organizations, including Adidas, Juici Patties, Miss Birdie Jamaica, Grace Foods, and New Fortress Energy, among others. Their contributions helped ensure that the event could offer a wide range of services to the community.

As a past student of Vere Technical High School, which dominated the ISSA Boys and Girls Championships during her time, Campbell-Brown’s commitment to giving back to her community through her foundation continues to leave a lasting legacy. The Back to School Health Fair and Wellness event is just one of many initiatives through which the VCB Foundation is making a positive difference in the lives of young Jamaicans.

Renowned Jamaican coach Glen Mills, who has spent more than five decades shaping some of the world’s fastest sprinters, has been lauded by French track and field coach Yann Edu for the impactful athletic coaching seminar he conducted in Nanterre, France, shortly after the conclusion of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.

Mills, 74, is a legendary figure in the world of athletics, having guided numerous athletes to global success. Among his most notable accomplishments is coaching Usain Bolt to three consecutive Olympic golds in the 100m and 200m at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the 2012 London Olympics, and the 2016 Rio Olympics. Under Mills’ tutelage, Bolt also set world records in both events at the 2009 Berlin World Championships—records that still stand 15 years later.

In addition to Bolt, Mills has also coached other elite sprinters, including Yohan Blake, who became the second-fastest man in history with times of 9.69 seconds in the 100m and 19.26 seconds in the 200m, and Kim Collins of St. Kitts and Nevis, who won gold in the 100m at the 2003 World Championships in Paris.

The seminar in Nanterre, which took place on August 12, was part of the first initiatives under the official City Twinning agreement between Nanterre, France, and Spanish Town, Jamaica. This agreement, signed on the margins of the Paris Olympics, aims to foster cultural and athletic exchange between the two cities. The signing was officiated by Mayor of Spanish Town, Councillor Norman Scott, and his counterpart in Nanterre, Raphael Adam, during a ceremony coinciding with Jamaica Day celebrations in Nanterre.

Yann Edu, a track and field coach based in Nanterre, expressed his deep appreciation for the seminar, highlighting the invaluable insights he gained from Mills' vast experience. "It was very nice to see coach Mills. I benefited from his experience, and nobody runs faster than his athletes, so obviously it was a big opportunity for us to meet him and to learn from him," Edu said during an interview conducted by officials from Jamaica's Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport (MCGES).

The seminar provided French coaches and athletes with a rare opportunity to learn from one of the greatest minds in track and field coaching. Mills shared his expertise on training methodologies, athlete management, and the nuances of sprinting techniques that have led his athletes to extraordinary success on the world stage.

Mills' influence on the sport of athletics is undeniable. He holds the distinction of coaching both the fastest and second-fastest men in history—Usain Bolt and Yohan Blake, respectively. His ability to develop athletes to reach their maximum potential has made him a revered figure in the sport, not only in Jamaica but globally.

Former Jamaica 400m hurdler Kemar Mowatt, who has overseen the development of four NCAA champions and eight Olympians, was hired by Boston University as the assistant coach for track & field, director of track & field and cross-country Grant Cartwright announced Tuesday.

Mowatt, who will oversee the sprints and hurdles for the BU Terriers, joins the staff there after serving as the volunteer assistant track & field coach at the University of Arkansas where the women were crowned the 2024 NCAA Outdoor Track & Field champions.

Since starting in the role in 2022, Mowatt was responsible for the sprints and hurdles for the women's program and served as the recruiting coordinator.

While there, he coached four NCAA individual champions in Rachel Glenn, Nickisha Pryce, Amber Anning and Phillip Lemonious. He also helped multiple athletes become SEC champions and coached his athletes to four school record performances. 

"I am very excited to welcome Kemar to our program and Boston University," Cartwright told Goterriers.com.

"We cannot wait to see the impact he will have on our student-athletes in the classroom and on the track."

Simultaneously, Mowatt was an assistant track & field coach at Hurdle Mechanic Track Club where he started in 2023.

He coached all sprints and hurdles athletes and was one of two coaches accountable for qualifying five athletes to the 2024 Paris Olympics.
 
Prior to coaching in Arkansas, Mowatt was the volunteer assistant coach for track & field at Clemson where he oversaw the development of both the men's and women's sprints and hurdles squads and assisted in the team's marketing efforts. His athletes achieved three school records.
 
"I am extremely excited and deeply honored to take on this position as men's and women's assistant sprints/hurdles coach," said Mowatt.

 "I want to express my sincere thanks to director Grant Cartwright and the entire Boston University administration for their unwavering commitment to providing the best possible experience for student-athletes. I am eager to collaborate with exceptional coaches and support staff and the academic community to help develop the next generation of Terriers."

Mowatt ran professionally with Adidas Running from 2019 to 2023. He was a semi-finalist in the 400m hurdles at the 2021 Tokyo Olympic Games. 

In addition to being a two-time Jamaican National Champion and 2017 World Championships finalist in the 400m hurdles, Mowatt won bronze in the event at the 2019 Pan American Games, was a semifinalist at the 2022 World Athletic Championships and was a 2022 Commonwealth Games Finalist.
 
As a student-athlete at Arkansas, Mowatt was a nine-time USTFCCCA All-American and a two-time SEC Outdoor Champion in the 400m hurdles. Mowatt earned All-American status throughout his tenure in the 400m hurdles, the 4x100m relay and 4x400m relay. 
 

Jamaica national record holder Ackera Nugent is set to open her Diamond League account at the prestigious Lausanne, Switzerland, event on Thursday, August 22.

Nugent, the second-fastest woman in the world this year over the 100m hurdles and Jamaica's sole finalist at the Paris Olympics Games, is set to face an exceptional field in what promises to be one of the most anticipated races of the meet.

Among her competitors are Olympic bronze medallist Jamine Camacho-Quinn of Puerto Rico and compatriot Danielle Williams.

Nugent, 22, has been a standout athlete this year, capturing the spotlight after a dominant win at the national senior trials in a blistering personal best of 12.28 seconds. The mark is also a new stadium record and the ninth fastest time in history over the distance.

Her notable achievements include reaching the finals at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she failed to finish after hitting the first hurdle.

Nugent looks forward to making her Diamond League debut.

"I'm incredibly grateful to finally have the opportunity to compete on the Diamond League circuit," Nugent said.

"It's a huge step as I transition into a full-time professional athlete. The Diamond League is where I see myself competing for the foreseeable future, so I’m ready to embrace everything that comes with it," she added.

Nugent is also slated to compete at the Silesia Diamond League in Poland this Sunday, August 25, and the Rome Golden Gala on Friday, August 30.

Jamaican sprinters Christania Williams and Candice McLeod delivered strong performances at the International JOSKO Laufmeeting in Austria on Sunday, August 17, 2024.

Williams claimed victory in the women's 100m final, clocking 11.40 seconds to secure the top spot. She had earlier won her heat with an impressive 11.34 seconds, setting the stage for her final triumph.

Candice McLeod, competing while still recovering from knee surgery in March, finished second in the women’s 300m final with a time of 38.50 seconds, just behind Austria's Susanne Gogl-Walli, who won in 36.35 seconds.

 McLeod also competed in the 200m final, finishing fifth with a time of 24.88 seconds.,

The stage is set for a thrilling showdown at the Diamond League meeting in Silesia, Poland, on Sunday, August 25, where Caribbean track and field stars from Jamaica and Barbados will go head-to-head with some of the world's elite athletes. This star-studded event promises to deliver unforgettable performances as the region's top talents seek to assert their dominance on the global stage.

In the men's 110m hurdles, Jamaica's Rasheed Broadbell, the Olympic bronze medalist, and his compatriot Orlando Bennett will face off against the formidable American Olympic champion Grant Holloway. Holloway, a two-time world champion, is known for his explosive speed and technical prowess, but the rising French sensation Sasha Zhoya, who has been making waves on the European circuit, is also in the mix. This highly anticipated race is set to be a highlight of the meet, with Broadbell and Bennett looking to upset the reigning champion.

On the women's side, the 100m hurdles will see a clash of titans as Jamaica's Ackera Nugent, the second-fastest woman in the world this year, takes on a formidable field. Nugent, an Olympic finalist and Jamaican champion, will go up against 2019 World champion Nia Ali, former world record holder Kendra Harrison, and Olympic champion Masai Russell. The stacked lineup guarantees a fierce competition, with Nugent aiming to cement her place among the best.

 In the blue-riband 100m dash, Jamaica's sprinting sensation Kishane Thompson, who holds the fastest time in the world this year at 9.77 seconds, will lead a trio of Jamaican sprinters. Thompson will be joined by Rohan Watson and Ackeem Blake as they take on an all-star cast, including Olympic champion Marcell Lamont Jacobs, American Fred Kerley, and African champion Ferdinand Omanyala. Christian Coleman, the former world champion, is also in the lineup, making this race one of the most anticipated events of the day.

 The women's 100m promises to be equally electrifying, with Jamaica's two-time world champion Danielle Williams set to battle for a spot in the final against American Olympic finalist Grace Stark and French Olympic silver medalist Cyrena Samba-Mayela. With the level of talent on display, this race is poised to be a showstopper.

 In the field events, Jamaica's Rajindra Campbell, the Olympic bronze medalist in the shot put, will face the ultimate test as he goes up against Olympic champion and world record holder Ryan Crouser. The shot put competition is expected to be intense, with Campbell aiming to challenge the seemingly unbeatable Crouser.

 The 400m hurdles will feature Jamaica's Roshawn Clarke and Jaheel Hyde, both Olympic finalists, taking on a strong field that includes Norway's Karsten Warholm, the Olympic silver medalist, and Estonia’s Rasmus Magi. The women's 400m hurdles will see a quartet of Jamaican stars—Rushell Clayton, Shian Salmon, Andrennette Knight, and Janieve Russell—competing against American Olympic silver medalist Anna Cockrell and former world record holder Dalilah Mohammed.

 In the triple jump, Jamaica's Olympic silver medalist Shanieka Ricketts and compatriot Ackelia Smith will face a tough challenge from Cuba’s Laidagmis Povea and American Olympic bronze medalist Jasmine Moore.

 Barbadian star Sada Williams will represent her country in the 400m, where she will take on an exceptional field that includes Olympic gold medalist Marileidy Paulino, silver medalist Salwa Eid Naser, and USA’s rising star Alexis Holmes. The presence of Irish sensation Rhasidat Adeleke adds further intrigue to this already competitive race.

 The meet will close with the women’s 100m dash, featuring Jamaica's Olympic finalists Tia Clayton and Natasha Morrison. They will face off against Great Britain’s Dina Asher-Smith, Ivory Coast’s Marie Jose Ta Lou, and the USA’s Tamari Davis. With so much talent on display, this race promises to be a fitting finale to a day of high-octane athletics.

Alana Reid, fresh from her Olympic Games debut in Paris recently, and Wolmer’s Boys’ Gary Card headline Jamaica’s team to the World Under 20 Championships, as standout triple jumper Jaydon Hibbert is among notable absentees.

Hibbert, 19, the World under-20 record-holder and defending triple jump champion, pulled out of the championship due to an injury sustained at the Paris Olympic Games, where he placed fourth.

United States-born Skyler Franklin, the winner of the under-20 girls’ 400m at the national championships and fifth-fastest in the world at this level with a best of 51.01 seconds, will also miss the championship as her paperwork to officially represent Jamaica is yet to be finalised.

Still, the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA) has pooled together a talented 43-member squad, which should give a good account at the August 27-31 Championship in Lima, Peru.

Reid, who placed third in the 200m in Cali, Colombia, two years ago, was a member of the women’s 4x100m team, which finished fifth in Paris. She will contest the 100m in Peru, an event in which she is the under-20 world leader with her season’s best of 11.09 seconds.

Meanwhile, Card will be the highest-ranked Jamaican male at the meet, where his best of 20.50s puts him at number three in the 200m. He is fourth in the 100m with his season’s and personal best of 10.07.

Jamaica’s athletes will be targeting an improved medal haul from two years ago, when they captured a record 16 medals, the best-ever haul at these championships.

Team: Girls -Abigail Campbell, Abrina Wright, Alana Reid, Alliah Baker, Anecia Campbell, Briana Campbell, Deschanique Douglas, Habiba Harris, Jade Ann Dawkins, Jaeda Robinson, Kellyann Carr, Kerrica Hill, Nejhada Seymore, Natassia Fletcher, Rohana Sudlow, Sabrina Dockery, Shanaye Morris, Shanniqua Williams, Shanique Williams, Theiana-Lee Terrelonge

Boys -Chad Hendricks, Chavez Penn, Daniel Beckford, Daniel Wright, Deandre Daley, Demarco Bennett, Gary Card, Jabari Matheson, Jace Witter, Javaughn Pinnock, Junior Gallimore, Kemarrio Bygrave, Kyle Richards, Marcinho Rose, Nyrone Wade, Omary Robinson, Richard Hall, Romario Hines, Shadane Smith, Shaquan Dunn, Trevoy Smith.