Wanted: A Development Program for Future Jamaican Athletes

The World Championships are over, preparations have started in earnest for the 2016 Olympics. It is such a pity that in 2015 some Jamaican athletes are still being treated 'despicably' by the powers that be. One would think that when Asafa Powell
showed the rest of the world what running drug-free could produce the authorities would have ran with the program. This was reinforced by Usain Bolt who also added entertainment to the package as everyone wanted to see the 'Lightening Bolt' drop legs (dance) at the end of a race.

As usual Jamaica will be left behind. Representatives of foreign countries are now swooping into the island and bagging our athletes with offers of lucrative sporting contracts. Which young promising athlete who believes he is being sidelined would not be tempted by these carrots? The downside to this is that they are giving up their Jamaican citizenship and accepting citizenship of these foreign states and will now be competing against their compatriots.

Graphic credits: www.facebook.com/SMS Quotes - SadaBlue

It is time to look at the role of the Ministry with responsibility for Sports in Jamaica. It is time to demand that a program be put in place to take care of our athletes. It is now more than just about winning medals and trophies for your country, it is now about a long term development program for our future athletes.  The horses, at the Caymanas Race Track, with winning potential are looked after around the clock. The Trainers do not wait until a week before a big trophy race to take care of these horses. Good money is spent to get them in tip top condition. Programs for our athletes, when it comes to World Games and the Olympics, should be administered in conjunction with the Government so that at least the basic needs of the athletes are met. Not everyone will have the opportunity to get in one of the top racing club where they could be a part of a sponsorship deal so the Government will have to step up to the plate and be their Sponsor.

C'mon people! do your job! These athletes are keeping Jamaica relevant, they are winning! Isn't it time that you win too?