Elaine Thompson-Herah returns as Jamaica unveils star-studded relay squad
Key Points(5)
- The return of five-time Olympic gold medallist Elaine Thompson-Herah headlines Jamaica’s squad for the upcoming World Athletics Relays, a selection that signals both experience and firepower as the nation prepares to reassert its dominance on the global stage.
- Her inclusion adds immediate gravitas to a women’s team already rich with elite talent and provides a major boost as Jamaica eyes top honors when the competition unfolds May 2-3 in Gaborone, Botswana.
- <h2>A squad built for speed and depth</h2> Named by the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association, the team reflects a deliberate blend of proven champions and emerging stars across multiple relay disciplines.
- On the women’s side, Thompson-Herah is joined by an impressive supporting cast, including Shericka Jackson, Tina Clayton, Tia Clayton, Jonielle Smith, and Brianna Williams.
- It is a line-up capable of both blistering speed and tactical versatility, key ingredients in relay success.
The return of five-time Olympic gold medallist Elaine Thompson-Herah headlines Jamaica’s squad for the upcoming World Athletics Relays, a selection that signals both experience and firepower as the nation prepares to reassert its dominance on the global stage.
Her inclusion adds immediate gravitas to a women’s team already rich with elite talent and provides a major boost as Jamaica eyes top honors when the competition unfolds May 2-3 in Gaborone, Botswana.
A squad built for speed and depth
Named by the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association, the team reflects a deliberate blend of proven champions and emerging stars across multiple relay disciplines.
On the women’s side, Thompson-Herah is joined by an impressive supporting cast, including Shericka Jackson, Tina Clayton, Tia Clayton, Jonielle Smith, and Brianna Williams.
It is a line-up capable of both blistering speed and tactical versatility, key ingredients in relay success.
Men’s team anchored by championship pedigree
The men’s squad is equally formidable.
Leading the charge are World Championship 100m medalists Oblique Seville and Kishane Thompson, supported by a strong core that includes Antonio Watson, Ackeem Blake, Rohan Watson, and Kadrian Goldson.
With depth across sprint and quarter-mile events, Jamaica enters the competition well-equipped to challenge across formats.
Jamaica will contest a full slate of relay events, including men’s 4x100m, women’s 4x100m, mixed 4x100m, men’s 4x400m, women’s 4x400m, mixed 4x400m.
The competition serves as a critical proving ground, offering teams the chance to refine combinations, build chemistry, and secure qualification for upcoming global championships.
Behind the team: Experience and structure
The delegation will be led by team manager Judith Ewart, with Warren Blake serving as assistant and safeguarding officer.
Technical oversight will be provided by Maurice Wilson, supported by coaches Mark Elliott, Paul Francis, and Reynaldo Walott.
Medical and recovery support will include Marsha James, physiotherapist Pier-Ann Brown, and massage therapists Garfield Simmonds, Jeffrey King, and Richard Stephens.
Jamaica’s legacy in relay events is unmatched, built on decades of speed, precision, and championship execution.
In announcing the team, the governing body expressed its confidence and support:
“The JAAA extends best wishes to all athletes, coaches, and support staff as they represent the nation with pride on the international stage.”
Eyes on the prize
The team is scheduled to depart the island on April 27, returning May 4, with expectations firmly centered on podium finishes.
With Elaine Thompson-Herah back in the fold and a roster stacked with elite talent, Jamaica’s mission is clear:
Not just to compete, but to dominate.
Squad List
Women’s 4x100m: Shericka Jackson, Elaine Thompson-Herah, Jonielle Smith, Jodean Williams, Natasha Morrison, Lavanya Williams, Tia Clayton, Tina Clayton, Briana Williams
Men’s 4x100m: Ackeem Blake, Rasheed Foster, Kadrian Goldson, Oblique Seville, Rohan Watson, Ryiem Forde, Adrian Kerr, Odaine McPherson, Kishane Thompson
Women’s 4x400m: Shana-Kay Anderson, Rochelle Clayton, Andrenette Knight, Shian Salmon, Leah Anderson, Janielle Josephs
Men’s 4x400m: Jeremy Bembridge, Raheem Hayles, Jevaugn Powell, Tajh-Marques White, Antonio Watson, Roshawn Clarke, Assinie Wilson, Deandre Watkins
