KINGSTON, Jamaica — The 2024 RJRGLEANER Communications Group National Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year awards will once again shine a spotlight on Jamaica’s track and field athletes, who dominate the list of nominees, underscoring the nation’s unparalleled prowess in athletics.
Of the 13 nominees unveiled, 12 hail from the world of track and field, with cycling earning a solitary representation.
The ceremony, set for January 17, 2025, at The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, will honor exceptional performances across various disciplines. In the Sportswoman of the Year category, the nominees are Rushell Clayton, Ackera Nugent, Nikisha Pryce, Shanieka Ricketts, and Llori Sharpe. For the men, the shortlist includes Carey McLeod, Wayne Pinnock, Roje Stona, Kishane Thompson, Ackeem Blake, Rusheen McDonald, Rajindra Campbell, and Rasheed Broadbell.
Celebrating excellence: The People’s Choice Award
Adding to the excitement is the People’s Choice Performance of the Year category, featuring six captivating moments that left fans in awe. These include: Rasheed Broadbell’s bronze in the sprint hurdles at the Paris Olympics; Ackera Nugent’s scintillating world-leading 100m hurdles time of 12.24 seconds in the Diamond League; Khadija Shaw’s electrifying goal for Manchester City against Liverpool in the Women’s Super League; Roje Stona’s historic Olympic gold in the discus, with a record-breaking throw of 70 meters; Kishane Thompson’s silver-medal sprint at the Paris Olympics, and Chavany Willis’ brilliant goal for Arnett Gardens against Portmore United in the Jamaica Premier League.
Unveiling the nominees: A challenge of distinction
The announcement, made at TVJ’s Studio A on Lyndhurst Road, highlighted the rigorous selection process undertaken by the committee. Chairman of the selection panel, Mike Fennell, emphasized the exceptional quality of this year’s nominees, stating, “We have to maintain our standards and recognize those who perform at the highest level. It’s never easy to leave out deserving athletes, but excellence must be celebrated.”
Fennell acknowledged the possibility of revisiting the criteria in the future but stood firm on upholding the prestige of the awards. “We must never water down the recognition of excellence,” he said.
A year of remarkable achievements
Chairman of the RJRGLEANER Sports Foundation, Gary Allen, echoed Fennell’s sentiments, noting the extraordinary global impact of the 13 nominees. “This year presented challenges for the selection committee, with outstanding performances across the Olympics, World Indoor Championships, and other events. These athletes have elevated Jamaica’s reputation on the global stage, and we are grateful for their contributions.”
Allen also defended the dominance of track and field, asserting, “Excellence in athletics stood out this year. While we should address gaps in representation, the criteria for recognition must remain rooted in exceptional achievement.”
A nation’s heroes poised for recognition
As the nation eagerly anticipates the awards ceremony, the spotlight remains on the athletes who continue to make Jamaica proud with their relentless pursuit of excellence. With an Olympic year and other landmark performances in the rearview, the evening promises to be a celebration of unmatched talent and dedication.
