Attorneys representing Jamaica’s hammer thrower Nayoka Clunis are set to file an urgent appeal before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ad hoc committee if the uncertainty surrounding her participation in the 2024 Olympic Games remains unresolved by 5 pm today, Wednesday, July 16.

Despite achieving a National Record of 71.83 metres in May, ranking her in the top 32 in the world this year, Clunis's dream of competing on the world’s biggest stage is now hanging in the balance due to a blunder from the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA).

The 28-year-old, who placed second at the JAAA National Senior Championships, initially believed she was on her way to the Olympics. However, her excitement turned to dismay when she learned that her name was omitted from the JAAA’s official list submitted to World Athletics.

“Following the Jamaican Olympic Trials, I was elated to receive notification of my official selection to Team Jamaica. Unfortunately, I have since found myself in a difficult position. Due to an omission made by the Jamaican Athletics Administration Association, my name was not officially submitted to World Athletics. As such, I do not have a position in the Olympic Games,” Clunis shared in a post on X, formerly Twitter.

However, after no word forthcoming from the JAAA, attorneys representing the frustrated athlete - Dr. Emir Crowne and local attorney Sayeed Bernard – have written to the JAAA informing of their intended action.

"Mr. Bernard and I act for Ms. Nayoka Clunis, an athlete who should be well-known to you by now. As is also common ground, the JAAA’s admitted negligence (gross negligence, in some jurisdictions) has put Ms. Clunis’ Olympic dreams in jeopardy. In the absence of any updates as to Ms. Clunis’ situation by 5 p.m. today, we have been instructed to file an emergency appeal to the CAS’s ad hoc division."

The letter continued, "Indeed, we are hopeful that an appeal to the CAS is not necessary, but the JAAA’s negligence and radio silence since July 7th has left our client with few options, not to mention the irreparable damage this has done to the mental and emotional well-being. Athletes deserve better."

While Clunis awaits a resolution, her plight underscores the importance of strong administrative leadership, as the oversight by the JAAA could potentially rob an athlete who has shown remarkable dedication in her sport of the opportunity to achieve her dream on the global stage.

Quick-service restaurant giant, KFC Jamaica has inked a brand partnership with one of Jamaica’s most dynamic and exciting young athletes - triple jump sensation Jaydon Hibbert. The partnership with the world under-20 record holder begins on the eve of the 2024 Paris Olympics, where Hibbert will represent Jamaica on the world stage.

Excited for the partnership and the Olympic games ahead, Hibbert celebrated the support from KFC, noting, “I’m really excited to be partnering with KFC for this Olympic season. It is an honour to be named the first track and field brand ambassador for KFC. Whenever I land in Jamaica, KFC is always my first stop, so this opportunity to represent the brand is truly special to me. I'm excited to see what the future holds. Without question, it's a big deal!”

Andrei Roper, Marketing Manager at Restaurants of Jamaica also expressed his elation at the deal with the strong Olympic-medal prospect.

“KFC is a long-time supporter of Jamaican sports and athletes. We believe in investing in our nation’s talented youth, and so we are extremely excited to partner with one of Jamaica’s brightest young sporting talents. We are pleased to welcome Jaydon to the KFC family, and we are delighted to be a part of his journey,” Roper shared.

In addition to being the current world under-20 record holder in the triple jump, Hibbert will now lead Jamaica’s medal hopes in the event at the Paris Olympics. Hibbert is also set to represent Jamaica at the World U20 Championships in Lima, Peru later in August.

Roper continued, “Jaydon’s attitude and dedication towards track and field has been commendable. He aligns perfectly with everything we hold dear at KFC – leadership, discipline, commitment, dedication, community, nation-building, and all-around Jamaican excellence. He is a great role model for young athletes.  We look forward to what will undoubtedly be a great partnership and are confident he will represent us, both KFC and Jamaica, well at the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics.

Hibbert will appear in upcoming KFC brand and retail marketing campaigns as he continues to excel on and off the field and help lay the foundation for the next generation of talented Jamaican athletes.

Trinidad and Tobago's Olympic history is rich with moments of triumph and perseverance. The journey began in 1946 when the twin-island nation formed a committee, eventually gaining full recognition from the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Since then, Trinidad and Tobago have competed in every Summer Olympic Games, making their mark on the global stage.

The first notable participation came in 1948 when Rodney Wilkes won the nation’s first Olympic medal, a silver in the men’s featherweight division in weightlifting at the London Olympics. Wilkes continued his success by securing a bronze medal at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics. Trinidad and Tobago's first gold medal came in 1976 when Haseley Crawford won the men’s 100m in track and field athletics at the Montreal Summer Olympic Games. This historic victory was a monumental achievement, putting Trinidad and Tobago on the map in the athletics world.

Ato Boldon stands out as one of Trinidad and Tobago's most decorated Olympians, having won four medals in his illustrious career. Boldon claimed bronze in both the 100m and 200m at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics and followed up with a silver in the 100m and another bronze in the 200m at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. His achievements cemented his status as a track and field legend for the nation.

In more recent history, Keshorn Walcott brought home gold in javelin at the 2012 London Olympics, adding to the country's illustrious track and field legacy. Walcott continued to shine by winning a bronze medal in the 2016 Rio Olympics, and now, he aims for a third Olympic medal in Paris. Additionally, the nation received a gold medal in the 2008 men’s 4x100 relay after Jamaica was disqualified due to a doping violation by Nesta Carter.

As Trinidad and Tobago prepare for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, the nation has much to look forward to. Securing spots in the 4x100m and men's 4x400m relay teams at the World Athletics Relay Championship in Nassau, Bahamas, on May 5, 2024, highlights their continued strength in athletics.

The Trinidad and Tobago Olympic Committee has announced a team of 17 athletes, including seven women and 10 men, who will compete in athletics, cycling, and swimming. Among the notable athletes is Michelle-Lee Ahye, a seasoned sprinter known for her speed and competitive spirit. Jereem Richards, another formidable contender over 200m and 400m, will join her on the track. In the pool, Dylan Carter is an accomplished swimmer with a history of strong performances. Keshorn Walcott, the Olympic gold and bronze medalist in javelin, is looking to add a third Olympic medal to his collection. Nicholas Paul, a world-class cyclist participating in his second Olympic Games, will be joined by fellow cyclist Kwesi Browne, adding depth to the team’s cycling prospects.

The team will be supported by a dedicated group of officials and coaches, including manager Dexter Voisin, Chef De Mission Lovie Santana-Duke, Chief Medical Officer Rudranath Ramsawak, and Olympic medalist Keston Bledman.

With a total of 19 Olympic medals—15 in track and field, three in weightlifting, and one in swimming—Trinidad and Tobago have a proud history of Olympic success. The 2024 Paris Games represent another opportunity for the nation to showcase its athletic prowess and continue its legacy of excellence on the world stage.

For years, a picture of the Eiffel Tower hung in Kerriann McBeam’s home, symbolizing her dream destination. This summer, her lifelong dream will become a reality as she has emerged the grand prize winner of the Supreme Ventures Golden Ticket promotion: an all-expense-paid trip for two to the Paris Olympics.

The Supreme Ventures Golden Ticket promotion, launched in June, gave Supreme Ventures Limited (SVL) customers the chance to win the once-in-a-lifetime experience with the purchase of JMD$500 or more of any SVL product or game. The prize includes round-trip airfare, accommodation, tickets to Olympic events, and a guided tour of Paris for the winner and a guest.

"I can't believe this is happening! Visiting France has been a lifelong dream for me. I’ve had a picture of the Eiffel Tower in my house for so long and always knew in my heart I would get to go there one day,” said an excited Kerriann, who plans to take her mother with her on her dream trip. “To experience Paris with my mother and to see Team Jamaica compete is beyond anything I could have imagined. I am so grateful to Supreme Ventures for making this dream come true. My mom is my rock and she really deserves this trip."

Kerriann added, "I am extremely ecstatic, feeling blessed and looking forward to seeing Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce in action."

Kamal Powell, Head of Marketing at SVL, expressed his delight at helping yet another Jamaican realize their dreams. "At Supreme Ventures, we believe in making dreams come true. After renewing our sponsorship with the Jamaica Olympic Association to support the Olympic dreams of our athletes for another five years, it was a natural progression to offer our customers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to cheer for Team Jamaica live at the Olympic Games. We are delighted to send Kerriann and her mother to this Paris Olympics. We know they will have an amazing time cheering on Team Jamaica, all expenses on us."

The 2024 Olympics will be an unforgettable experience for the ten winners of the Red Stripe “Guh fi Gold & Glory” promotion.

From May 1 to June 28, Red Stripe rolled out a series of promotional events in support of the upcoming Olympic Games, from which 10 consumers have secured a unique opportunity to enjoy the Games live from the Stade de France in Paris.

To enter the promotion, consumers had to purchase six Red Stripes and send in their receipt via WhatsApp.

Out of the scores of people that entered, Samanthia Gordon, Solomon Hutchinson, Andre Davis, Nicola Bryce, Deborah Cole, Delroy Lee Rose, Princess Hibbert, Osbert Bailey, Johnell Benson and Danielle McKenzie were the lucky ten competition winners.

An additional 11 people from Red Stripe as well as various sister companies as well as customers will also be making the trip.

On Saturday, July 13, the winners, as well as others who will make the trip as part of Red Stripe’s contingent, were on hand at the company for a special handover event and celebration.

Two of the promotion winners, McKenzie and Rose, expressed excitement at the prospect of going to the Olympics.

“I’m very excited. I can’t wait to see the country and the attractions and, obviously, to cheer on team Jamaica,” McKenzie told Sportsmax.tv.

“Ecstatic,” was Rose’s response, noting that this will be his very first time travelling out the country.

“I will fully enjoy it. I thank Red Stripe because, out of all the people to enter, to be selected must be a divine intervention. I’ll be a proud representative of Jamaica,” he added.

The winners were also gifted with travel kits including items like branded shirts, jackets and cups as well as pot covers and vuvuzelas that will surely be used to cheer on the team in Paris.

Brand Manager for Red Stripe, Nathan Nelms, gave Sportsmax.tv insight into the motivation behind this initiative for the company.

“We really wanted to give our consumers a taste of the celebrations that will be happening in Paris. We are sure everybody locally will be watching on TV to cheer on team Jamaica, however, we wanted to give a very small group the opportunity to see the team live in Paris and give them an experience of a lifetime,” he said.

“We’ve come a long way since our signing of a big partnership with the Jamaica Olympic Association back in 2023. We’ve done so much to make sure that there is this rally cry that is built for the Jamaica Olympic Team,” he added.

In addition to getting to view the Olympics live, the winners will be given tours of various attractions in the French capital including the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre.

Athletics at the Olympic Games will take place from August 1-11.

 Ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics, legendary Olympian and the world’s fastest man, Usain Bolt, has produced an anthem for Team Jamaica, titled “Jamaica All The Way." The timely track aims to rally the nation, capturing the indomitable spirit of Jamaicans as its athletes prepare to compete on the world stage in Paris.

As the newly announced Red Stripe Ambassador, Bolt is at the forefront of the celebrations for the beer giant's Olympic campaign, ‘Guh Fi Gold and Glory.’ The campaign seeks to unite Jamaicans in support of their athletes, reminding them that the ‘likkle but tallawah’ island is cheering them on.

“Jamaica All The Way” features collaborations with musical sensations Busy Signal, who headlined the 2022 Red Stripe independence song “Big Up Jamaica,” and Shaneil Muir. Their combined talents are set to amplify the cheers of Jamaicans everywhere.

“The Olympics represent a moment of pure joy, and I want our athletes to feel the support of all Jamaicans. This song celebrates their dedication and hard work. I produced it to encourage them to believe in themselves and dream big when they ‘Guh Fi Gold and Glory,’ knowing they have infinite support,” said the Fastest Man Alive, Usain Bolt.

With the Paris 2024 Olympics approaching quickly, from July 26 to August 11, the song has already been released on all streaming platforms, ensuring that Jamaican athletes can feel support at home and from the diaspora.

President of the Jamaica Olympic Association, Christopher Samuda highlighted the importance of this collaboration, stating, “There is no better way to celebrate the Paris 2024 Olympic Games than with Usain capturing the infectious beat of dancehall, the inspired spirit of our people, and our aspiration to be the greatest versions of humanity. When the JOA and Red Stripe team up with lightning Bolt, it can only be electrifying and volcanic! Paris, stay tuned!”

As the nation gets ready for the 2024 Paris Olympics, the partnership between the Jamaica Olympic Association and Red Stripe shows how culture can bring people together and boost the spirits of our athletes.

“Although we can't invite every Jamaican to travel to Paris and cheer for our athletes in person, our ‘Guh fi Gold and Glory’ campaign allows us to create opportunities for Jamaicans to show their support for our athletes both locally and globally. This song serves as a rallying cry, highlighting our unity and commitment to competing as a united team,” Red Stripe Brand Manager Nathan Nelms, emphasised.

As Team Jamaica prepares to shine on the track in Paris, “Jamaica All The Way” is set to inspire, motivate, and encourage them to reach new heights of glory at the 2024 Olympics.

In a full-circle moment, former Haitian swimmer Naomy Grand’Pierre will coach Haiti's two-member swimming team at the Olympic Games in Paris this summer. Grand’Pierre, who made history as the first female swimmer to represent Haiti at the Olympics in 2016, is now set to lead her younger brother Alex Grand’Pierre and 14-year-old Mayah Chouloute to the global stage.

Reflecting on her transition from athlete to coach, the 27-year-old Grand’Pierre described the experience as profoundly meaningful. "It's definitely a full circle moment for me," she shared. "When I was going to the Olympics, I was the first female swimmer and the first swimmer to represent Haiti since 1996. It was a very isolating and new experience. I'm excited to share all the things that I've learned and make sure that the two athletes attending the Games have a really good time. They feel confident and don't have to deal with the insecurities I faced."

Grand’Pierre’s firsthand experience as a trailblazer provides her with unique insights to mentor her athletes effectively. She emphasized the importance of comprehensive preparation, not just physically but mentally and emotionally. "Being the first, you're kind of the guinea pig. I had to figure everything out on my own. I think the part I’ll enjoy most is letting the athletes know every single detail, what to expect, and having the mental and emotional preparation alongside the physical training," she explained. "I'll get to coach them and also get to coach my younger self in the process."

Grand’Pierre is optimistic about the growth and development her athletes will experience in Paris. "Getting to be surrounded by the world's top swimmers helps you improve your game dramatically. They’ll be inspired, and representing Haiti, especially with all the political setbacks we've been dealing with, will make the experience even more significant."

At just 14 years old, Mayah Chouloute is set to become the youngest swimmer ever to represent Haiti at the Olympics. Grand’Pierre sees a bit of herself in Chouloute. "Mayah definitely caught the world and the team by surprise. Her determination and willingness to step into the unknown and represent Haiti makes her a very coachable athlete. I'm looking forward to getting some one-on-one time with her to make sure she's ready to embrace the moment and the opportunity."

Grand’Pierre’s younger brother, Alex, a 21-year-old gold medalist in the breaststroke at the CCCAN Championships in Mexico, is also part of the team. Coaching a sibling at the Olympics can be a monumental task, Grand’Pierre does not see her brother presenting one. "There's absolutely no challenge. Alexander is a fantastic brother. We've trained together, and coaching him is a collaborative situation. We tackle it together, and we've gone through several meets where I've been his coach. It’s always been a fantastic experience. I'm really looking forward to doing it with him at the Olympic Games."

As Naomy Grand’Pierre prepares to guide Haiti’s swimming team at the Paris Olympics, with her expertise and passion, she is poised to lead Mayah Chouloute and Alex Grand’Pierre to a memorable Olympic experience and hopefully inspiring a new generation of Haitian athletes.

Three-time Olympic gold medalist Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce is set to compete in Switzerland on Tuesday as she gears up for what will be her final Olympic Games in Paris this summer. The 37-year-old Jamaican sprint queen aims to extend her record by winning a fifth Olympic 100m medal in Paris, solidifying her legacy as the greatest female 100m sprinter of all time.

 Fraser-Pryce’s remarkable Olympic journey began with gold medals in Beijing in 2008 and London in 2012. She then captured a bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Games, despite battling an injured toe, and followed up with a silver medal at the 2020 Tokyo Games. This incredible feat made her the first and only woman to win medals in the 100m at four consecutive Olympic Games.

 In the recent Jamaica National Championships, Fraser-Pryce finished third in the 100m behind Shericka Jackson (10.84) and first-time Olympic qualifier Tia Clayton (10.90). Fraser-Pryce clocked 10.98 in the preliminaries, 10.91 in the semifinals, and 10.94 in the final, showcasing her enduring speed and competitive spirit.

 As she prepares for her final Olympic appearance, Fraser-Pryce will compete at the Luzern meeting on Tuesday, marking her return to European soil since the 2023 World Championships. This event will likely be her last race before the Paris Olympics. Last year at the Luzern meeting, she clocked an impressive 10.82 seconds, demonstrating her elite performance level.

 Fraser-Pryce, who will turn 38 in December, is poised to make her final push for Olympic glory. With five world titles in the 100m to her name, she remains a formidable competitor on the track. Her participation in Switzerland is not only a critical part of her Olympic preparations but also a chance for fans to witness one of the sport's legends in action one last time before she aims for another historic performance in Paris.

This Sunday, July 14th, marks the beginning of the final phase of Olympic preparations for over 135 athletes from 32 countries in the Pan American region. The training camp, hosted in Mulhouse-Alsace, will run until August 4th, serving as a crucial prelude to the Paris Olympic Games.

Located less than three hours from Paris, Mulhouse-Alsace is ready to welcome these athletes from across the Americas. The camp is organized by Panam Sports and the Mulhouse Alsacia Agglomeration, providing an optimal environment for athletes to fine-tune their skills and strategies before heading to the Olympic stage.

 Athletes from Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, Bolivia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Chile, Dominica, Ecuador, Grenada, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Virgin Islands, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Dominican Republic, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Suriname, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and Uruguay will be participating in this comprehensive training camp.

 Training across 15 disciplines, including Athletics, Badminton, Boxing, Artistic Gymnastics, Judo, Weightlifting, Wrestling, Swimming, Rowing, Taekwondo, Archery, Shooting Sports, Table Tennis, Triathlon, and Beach Volleyball, the athletes are set to prepare intensely for their respective Olympic events.

 Among the standout athletes is Marileidy Paulino from the Dominican Republic. As a world champion in the 400-meter dash and 4x400 mixed relay, and a silver Olympic medalist from Tokyo 2020, Paulino is set to lead her country as the flag bearer in Paris 2024. Her prowess on the track has earned her two Pan American championships, making her a formidable competitor.

 Ecuador’s Neisi Dajomes, an Olympic champion in weightlifting from Tokyo 2020, will also be training in Mulhouse-Alsace. Dajomes, a world medalist in 2017, 2018, and 2019, and the Pan American champion at Lima 2019, will be carrying her nation's flag at the Olympics.

 Grenada’s Anderson Peters, a two-time world champion in javelin at Doha 2019 and Eugene 2022, and the Pan American champion at Lima 2019, will also be preparing for Paris. Peters’ incredible achievements in javelin mark him as a key athlete to watch.

 Flor Ruiz Hurtado from Colombia, who recently won a silver medal in javelin at the World Championship in Budapest 2023 and is the Pan American champion in Santiago 2023, will be honing her skills at the camp.

 Joining the roster is Angie Palacios of Ecuador, who won the Pan American championship in weightlifting at Santiago 2023 and has secured world medals in 2022 and 2023. Palacios’ continued success highlights her as a significant contender in Paris.

 Panama's gymnastics star, Hillary Herón, will also be training at the camp. As the Pan American vice-champion in 2024 and a bronze medalist at the Gymnastics World Cup in Cairo 2023, Herón is set to make a strong impression at the Olympics.

 Her fellow countrywoman, Karla Navas, who claimed gold at the Doha World Cup in 2024 and is a Pan American champion at Santa Marta 2024, will also be preparing in Mulhouse-Alsace. Navas’ achievements in gymnastics underscore her potential for Olympic success.

 Ecuador's Lisseth Ayovi, who won a silver medal in weightlifting at Santiago 2023 and a bronze medal at the Riyadh 2023 world championship, will be part of this elite training camp. Her strength and dedication are key assets as she prepares for Paris.

 Lastly, Alexander Ogando from the Dominican Republic, a silver Olympic medalist in the 4x400 mixed relay at Tokyo 2020 and the latest world champion at the Paris 2024 Diamond League, will be training with his sights set on Olympic glory.

 The Panam Sports Channel will provide extensive coverage of the training camp and the Olympic Games, broadcasting a daily 30-minute show from Mulhouse starting July 15th. The program will feature interviews, reports, and testimonials, offering a comprehensive look at the athletes' preparations and their journey to the Olympic Games.

 As these athletes embark on their final preparations, the training camp in Mulhouse-Alsace stands as a pivotal point in their journey to Paris 2024, ensuring they are ready to compete at the highest level and make their countries proud on the world stage.

On June 30, at the final day of the Jamaica National Championships held at the National Stadium in Kingston, reigning world 100m hurdles champion Danielle Williams secured her place on her first-ever Olympic team with a second-place finish in 12.53 seconds. This achievement comes at the age of 31, after two previous unsuccessful attempts, marking a significant milestone in her illustrious career.

Williams, who had set the previous national record of 12.32 seconds in 2019, finished behind Ackera Nugent, who won the event with a new national record of 12.28 seconds. Janeek Brown, who previously held the record before Williams, finished third in a season’s best 12.61 seconds.

When asked by Sportsmax.TV about her emotions on making the Jamaica Olympic team for the first time, Williams expressed her gratitude and humility.

"To be honest, I don’t feel any different. I am happy, I’m blessed to be on the team this time around. God is an on-time God. It is His will for me to be on the team this time; the other two times it wasn’t His will, so I’m just giving Him thanks, staying in the moment, staying grounded; going back to work and gearing up for Paris."

Williams had aimed for a faster time, and her second-place finish in 12.53 seconds was a bit surprising given her current form and expectations.

"I felt I would have gone 12.3 or low 12.4, so 12.53 was a bit surprising given the shape I am in and how I felt, but again, God’s time and not my time, and the time will come. I am just happy to finish in the top three."

Reflecting on her world title victory in Budapest last year, Williams emphasized that her confidence heading into the Jamaican championships came from her ability to trust her body rather than her previous win.

"I have always been confident; winning last year didn’t affect my confidence for this year. The confidence I get is that I can trust my body; my body is not failing me this year. I have been able to stay injury-free, and that is all the confidence I need."

Williams' coach, Lennox Graham, acknowledged that there were areas needing improvement for Williams to perform at her best in Paris. Despite her solid performance, Graham saw room for technical refinement.

"You know me; I will always say yes because I am always striving to get better. She ran 12.46 there earlier in the season with a lot of load, and so I could see why she would believe; she would be running well in practice and running 12.46 loaded when she came for the Jamaica Athletic Invitational, there is no way we wouldn’t believe she would run faster."

Graham pinpointed specific issues during the race that need to be addressed.

"She didn’t have a technically good race and she picked a good time to do it because usually in Jamaica you have a technically bad race you run fourth or fifth so it was fortunate for us that she was 12.53 and second. Ackera Nugent ran a great race, 12.28, anywhere you go and run 12.2 (you do well), so we are not taking anything away from her, but I believe Ants was in shape to run faster than 12.5 for sure."

 The coach identified the final hurdles as a critical area needing improvement.

"She was not happy with the last three hurdles I was not happy with the last five because that was where it started going wrong. It’s not something that is unfixable, it’s something that can be adjusted. At the end of the day, the athlete has to go out there and race. We can see the progress being made in practice, but then you have to go out there and race."

Graham elaborated on the technical aspects that need correction.

"Over the last five hurdles, she was just running. The hurdles is a rhythm race, it’s not just running, so you just have to embrace that and make the necessary corrections to make sure that she stays in rhythm because she went out of rhythm, totally out of rhythm. But it’s a good problem to have; you’re on the team because we have gone in 2016 and 2020 and not made the team."

Reflecting on past disappointments, Graham emphasized the significance of Williams making the team at age 31.

"2016, we were leading and then ran into a hurdle, jumped over it and out of the race. 2020, we ran hard and was fourth. So we missed it twice and to get it at 31 years old is a blessing. We are holding it with both hands and with both legs wrapped around it. Now we are going to try and show up and make ourselves and Jamaica proud. That is our plan."

Jamaican athlete Leford Green will be inducted into the Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU) Athletics Hall of Fame this September, celebrating a remarkable collegiate career and outstanding contributions to the university's track and field program. Green, a former student-athlete who excelled both on the track and in the classroom, expressed his overwhelming gratitude for the honor.

"I am overwhelmed. We have been working hard over the years. We have done a lot with regards to Johnson C. Smith and the track and field programme. As a matter of fact, I was Coach (Lennox) Graham's first recruit, so it is just overwhelming that I am being acknowledged for all the efforts and the achievements," Green shared.

These days a Unit Manager at Piedmont Airlines, Green's journey at JCSU began in 2008, where he quickly made a name for himself. In his sophomore year, he was named the 2008-09 CIAA Male Scholar-Athlete of the Year, setting the stage for an illustrious collegiate career. He became the NCAA defending indoor 400m national champion in 2008 and led the JCSU men's track team with standout performances across multiple events. Notably, he set a new Clemson University facility record of 1:03.52 in the 500m during the 2009 indoor season.

Born in the parish of St Mary but raised in St. Catherine, Jamaica, Green earned his second All-American honours for his indoor performance and set a personal best in the 200m with a time of 20.41 seconds, the fastest collegiate time in the nation that year. His prowess extended to the outdoor track as well, where he secured automatic qualifying times for the 2009 NCAA Outdoor Championships in both the 200m and 400m.

Green's dominance continued at the CIAA Outdoor Championships, where he was named MVP after winning the 200m, 400m hurdles, and placing second in the 400m. His remarkable athletic achievements were matched by his academic excellence, as he maintained a 4.0 GPA in information systems engineering. Green also received the Pettis Norman Award at the JCSU Annual Athletic Banquet, recognizing him as Student-Athlete of the Year.

The pinnacle of Green's collegiate career came in 2011 when he was named NCAA Division II Outdoor Track and Field Athlete of the Year. That year, he finished the season undefeated and won the NCAA title in the 400m with a time of 45.74 seconds, outpacing the nearest competitor by a full second. He also won the 400m hurdles at the NCAA meet in 2010 and contributed to JCSU's winning 4x400m relay team and fifth-place 4x100m squad.

Green's impact extended beyond his individual accolades. At his conference meet, he earned 2011 CIAA Male Athlete of the Meet honors after winning the 400m and 400m hurdles, finishing second in the 200m, and running a leg on the Golden Bulls' second-place 4x400m relay team. His efforts earned him the title of Division II Male Track Athlete of the Year in 2010.

Reflecting on his time at JCSU, Green highlighted his freshman year as especially memorable. "My freshman year. It was a transitional period for me and Coach Graham. Freshman year, pretty much won indoors, new to all that stuff and came out national champion in the 400m was exceptional for me so it just showed I could overcome and keep on going further and further."

 Green's achievements extended to the international stage, where he represented Jamaica at the 2012 London Olympics, finishing seventh in the 400m hurdles final. He also competed at the World Athletics Championships in 2011, 2013, and 2015. Additionally, Green won gold in the 400m hurdles for Jamaica at the 2010 and 2011 Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games in Puerto Rico. After graduating, Green continued to contribute to JCSU as an assistant coach, mentoring the next generation of athletes.

Leford Green's induction into the Johnson C. Smith University Athletics Hall of Fame is a testament to his dedication, resilience, and excellence both on and off the track. His legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of student-athletes to strive for greatness.

Jamaican hammer thrower Erica Belvit has expressed her deep disappointment at not making the Jamaican team for the 2024 Paris Olympics, despite winning at the national championships just over a week ago. Belvit’s winning throw of 68.28m defeated Nayoka Clunis (66.63m) and Marie Forbes (63.14m), who finished second and third, respectively.

However, Clunis, having thrown a season’s best of 71.83m that exceeded the World Athletics 'B' standard of 70.00m, and who is ranked 25th in the world, has been selected for the Olympic team. Belvit, on the other hand, did not meet the B standard and is ranked 57th, rendering her ineligible for selection.

Taking to Instagram, Belvit shared her emotional journey and the challenges she faced this season.

“I don’t really have many words to describe this season other than ‘I tried my best’. Because I did,” Belvit wrote. “I came out of this season a National Champion, but I unfortunately could not put it together to qualify for the Olympics this year.”

The distraught hammer thrower revealed that her season was marred by a car accident just before it began, which resulted in her wearing a neck brace for nearly a month due to nerve issues in her neck and shoulders. Despite these setbacks, she persevered, balancing rest and training in an effort to reach her peak performance. However, time was not on her side.

“I tried so hard to allow my body the rest I could afford while continuing my training to the best of my ability. But the clock was running out and it became clear that my ‘best’ just wasn’t going to be good enough,” she lamented.

Belvit’s emotional struggle was palpable as she described the toll it took on her mental health. “I’ve never really thought of myself as a crier; this season broke that (and me) down for sure. I cried for and grieved this season for weeks; every single day. Woke up, crying. Falling asleep, crying. Before, during, and after trainings, crying. In airports, on planes, crying. Because I love to throw, and I couldn’t fathom that the dream I had to make it to this Olympic Games was dying right in front of me.”

The heartbreak was compounded by her exclusion from Jamaica’s team for the World Championships in Budapest last year, making the missed Olympic opportunity even more painful. “I felt like I needed to get there, especially after not being selected to go to Worlds last year,” she added.

Despite the setback, Belvit expressed gratitude to those who supported her throughout her journey. “Thank you to everyone who has shown support and love throughout this season and my entire career. Thank you to @wilfredo_dejesus for sticking with me through this season. Thank you to @rskim7296 at @reformpt_natick for your amazing work - I couldn’t have gotten back into competition shape this quickly without you. To the special few who spoke life into me and picked me up when I didn’t have strength, I love you.”

Looking ahead, Belvit remains uncertain about her future but is determined to take time to recover mentally. “I’m not really sure where I go from here; I definitely need some time to get my mental together. Only God knows what’s next,” she concluded.

Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 23 points to send Greece into the Paris Olympics.

Antetokounmpo has not previously featured at a Games, but is now set to debut after Greece qualified for the 12-team basketball tournament.

They beat Croatia 80-69 on Sunday, and will now face Australia, Canada and Spain in the group stage in Paris.

And two-time NBA MVP Antetokounmpo believes Greece should be gunning for gold.

"The best athletes in the world compete in the Olympic Games," Antetokounmpo said.

"We have nothing to lose. I really believe we have an incredible team and we can accomplish something special."

Spain and Brazil also booked their places at the Games on Sunday, beating the Bahamas and Latvia respectively.

The Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA) has unveiled its formidable team for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, featuring a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers. The team, comprising over 60 athletes, is poised to make a significant impact on the global stage.

Leading the charge is sprint legend Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, who will make her fifth Olympic appearance after debuting in Beijing in 2008. Joining her is newcomer Kishane Thompson, the fastest man in the world this year, who headlines a strong contingent of sprinters that includes Oblique Seville and Ackeem Blake. Jamaica's men's 100m team is eager to reclaim Olympic glory after missing out on medals in Tokyo 2020.

The women's sprint squad also features exciting new talent, with Tia Clayton, Lanae-Tava Thomas, and Niesha Burgher making their Olympic debuts. Janeek Brown and Ackera Nugent, both newcomers, are set to compete in the hurdles, adding depth to Jamaica's lineup along with two-time world champion Danielle Williams.

Shericka Jackson, aiming for her individual first Olympic gold, seeks redemption after a missed opportunity in Tokyo. Jackson, along with Thomas, who has shown impressive form this season, and Niesha Burgher will bolster Jamaica's medal prospects in the 200m. Andrew Hudson and Bryan Levell will take on the men's half-lap sprint.

In the field events, NCAA National Division One high jump champion Romaine Beckford makes his Olympic debut. Beckford, who won the NCAA title in June with a season-best 2.27m, hopes to translate his collegiate success to the Olympic stage.

 Lamara Distin will join Beckford in the high jump, representing the women's team.

The team also includes several standout athletes in various disciplines.

In the 400m, Junelle Bromfield, Stacey Ann Williams, and newly minted national record holder Nickisha Pryce will represent the women, with Stephenie Ann McPherson as a reserve. The men's team features Sean Bailey, Deandre Watkin, and Jevaughn Powell, with Rusheen McDonald serving as a reserve.

In middle-distance events, Natoya Goule-Toppin and Adelle Tracey will compete in the 800m, with Tracey also taking on the 1500m. On the men's side, Navasky Anderson will represent Jamaica in the 800m.

The hurdles events will see Janeek Brown, new national record holder Ackera Nugent, and Danielle Williams competing in the women's 100m hurdles, with Megan Tapper as a reserve. The men's 110m hurdles team includes Orlando Bennett, Rasheed Broadbell, and Hansle Parchment, with Tyler Mason as a reserve.

For the 400m hurdles, Rushell Clayton, Shiann Salmon, and Janieve Russell will compete for the women, with Andrenette Knight as a reserve. The men's team includes Roshawn Clarke, Jaheel Hyde, and Malik James-King, with Assinie Wilson as a reserve.

In the long jump, Chanice Porter and Ackelia Smith will represent the women, while Tajay Gayle, Carey McLeod, and Wayne Pinnock will compete for the men.

The triple jump team includes Shanieka Ricketts, Kimberly Williams, and Ackelia Smith for the women, and Jaydon Hibbert and Jordan Scott for the men.

In the discus throw, Samantha Hall will compete for the women, while Roje Stona, Ralford Mullings, and Traves Smikle will represent the men's team, with Fedrick Dacres as a reserve.

In the shot put, Lloydricia Cameron and Danniel Thomas-Dodd will compete for the women, with Rajindra Campbell representing the men. Nayoka Clunis will compete in the hammer throw for the women.

The relay teams feature a strong mix of talent. The women's 4x100m relay team includes Tia Clayton, Shashalee Forbes, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, and Shericka Jackson, with Alana Reid as a reserve. The men's 4x100m relay team consists of Ackeem Blake, Jehlani Gordon, Oblique Seville, and Kishane Thompson, with Jelani Walker as a reserve.

For the women's 4x400m relay, Junelle Bromfield, Stephenie Ann McPherson, Nickisha Pryce, and Stacey Ann Williams will compete, with Ashley Williams as a reserve. The mixed 4x400m relay team includes Andrenette Knight, Charokee Young, Zandrian Barnes, and Raheem Hayles, with Stephenie Ann McPherson and Kimar Farquharson as reserves.

The selection of relay teams will be at the discretion of the Technical Leader and his team. With a mix of experienced athletes and emerging stars, Jamaica's team is set to make a significant impact at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.

Romaine Beckford, the NCAA National Division One high jump champion, is nervously awaiting the announcement of Jamaica's team for the 2024 Paris Olympics, set to be revealed on Monday. Despite finishing fourth at the national championships last week, Beckford remains the highest-ranked Jamaican high jumper this season, courtesy of his impressive 2.27m clearance at last month's NCAA Division One Championsips.

With the Olympic standard for the high jump being 2.33m and the quota set at 32 for the event, Beckford’s 2.27m has him ranked 32^nd in the world.

Beckford's season has been noteworthy, marked by a standout performance in June when he cleared 2.27m to win the NCAA National Division 1 title. In May, he also won the SEC title for the University of Arkansas with a 2.22m jump. However, at the Jamaican national championships, things did not go as planned. He finished behind newly crowned champion Lushane Wilson (2.25m), Christoff Bryan (2.25m), and Raymond Richard (2.20m), managing only to clear 2.20m.

Reflecting on his performance, Beckford said, "Everything felt good until the 2.25m bar. I prayed before the competition. I cannot complain. I pretty much had, I wouldn’t say a perfect season but a great season before coming to this meet. I can't doubt myself, I can't beat myself up. I wanted to defend my title or jump better than what I did. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen, but I can't stay on this. I have to move forward and, hopefully, Jamaica will take me to the Olympics."

With Jamaica expected to name more than 60 athletes for the Paris Olympics, Beckford is keeping his fingers crossed. Despite his national championship setback, his season-best 2.27m places him right on the bubble in the World Athletics global rankings, making him a candidate for Olympic selection.

Beckford attributes some of his recent struggles to technical issues in his approach. "The approach is the main thing that we need to work on, and that was one of the factors that was giving me problems at 2.25m because the bounce and strength and everything was there; it’s just a little technical issue," he explained.

However, Beckford remains optimistic even if he is more than a bit nervous. "But it's nothing to worry about, Jermaine Beckford will always find a way, and it’s just for me to go back to the drawing board, remain focused and stay calm," he said confidently.