Jamaican 100 and 200-meter national champion Shericka Jackson is aiming to replicate her success on the international stage when she competes in Paris this August.
Jackson is not only preparing to claim her first Olympic gold but also hopes to keep the sprint double title in Jamaican hands.
Despite entering the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA)/PUMA National Junior and Senior Championships with only a handful of races under her belt, Jackson emerged victorious. Her confidence stems from her trust in her coach and a well-designed preparation process to ensure she peaks at the right time for the Olympics.
“It was a late start to the season, you know, but nevertheless, coach and I had sat down and had a conversation about how I wanted to approach the season, and I think we did pretty good,” Jackson stated. “I’ve only run one 100m this season, and my 200m wasn’t the best, but as I said, it’s a work in progress, and you just have to trust the process.”
Fewer appearances on the track
Injury concerns shadowed much of Jackson’s season, leading to fewer appearances on the track. However, she clarified that there was never a real danger of missing the Paris Games. Last year’s intense schedule, including multiple rounds of competition at the 2023 World Athletics Championships, left her fatigued. This year, her focus has been on better race management to maintain her health and preparedness.
“Honestly, there was a little niggle here and there, but it wasn’t anything serious. Last year, I ran a lot, and by the end of the season, I was a lot more tired than usual, especially after the World Championships. I just said, ‘Coach, make the rules and I’ll follow,’ and that’s what we did.”
The Paris Games are particularly significant for Jackson as she seeks her first individual Olympic gold medal. Her best Olympic finishes to date are a bronze in the women’s 100m at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and a bronze in the women’s 400 metres at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
“I don’t have an Olympic gold medal, so that’s something I’m definitely looking forward to,” she expressed. “One of the greatest things is you believing in yourself, and I believe in myself. Yes, a part of the season I lost a bit of hope, but as I said, I trusted my coach, and I am here now.”
