The stage is nearly set for the JAAA/Puma National Junior and Senior Championships, running from June 26 to 29 at the National Stadium in Kingston. While some of Jamaica’s biggest stars won’t compete, the meet still promises fireworks as athletes vie for spots on international teams.
Among the major absentees is Elaine Thompson-Herah, the Olympic sprint queen who has yet to compete this year due to injury. Also missing are Jaydon Hibbert, world U20 triple jump record holder; Olympic discus champ Roje Stona; and 110m hurdles gold medallist Omar McLeod, who recorded solid performances in Europe recently. Still, the quality of competition remains elite.
The women’s 100m is a must-watch. Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, the five-time world champion, returns in what could be one of her final Nationals. She’ll face reigning world 200m champion Shericka Jackson, who is skipping the 200m this year.
Ready to challenge them are rising stars Tina and Tia Clayton, along with Briana Williams, Kemba Nelson, Krystal Sloley, and Natasha Morrison—all looking to shake up the sprint hierarchy.
Defending champion Kishane Thompson and world finalist Oblique Seville headline the men’s 100m, setting up an electric clash. Seville will double in the 100m and 200m for the first time at Nationals.
In the 200m, all eyes are on Bryan Levell, fresh off a 19.79s (wind-aided) showing at the Racers Grand Prix. Christopher Taylor, returning from suspension, joins the sprint mix, stepping away from the 400m. Also in the hunt: Ackeem Blake, Yohan Blake, Julian Forte, Bouwahjgie Nkrumie, and Gary Card.
In the women’s 400m, Nickisha Pryce meets Dejanea Oakley, Jamaica’s world leader this year. On the men’s side, world champion Antonio Watson will be tested by Deandre Watkin, Zandrion Barnes, and Shemar Chambers.
The hurdles are equally stacked. Rasheed Broadbell defends his 110m title against Olympic champion Hansle Parchment and NCAA standouts Jaheim Stern and Jerome Campbell. In the 100m hurdles, it’s a battle among Danielle Williams, Ackera Nugent, and Megan Tapper.
The 400m hurdles feature Roshawn Clarke versus Malik James-King, while the women’s side boasts Rushell Clayton, Shiann Salmon, Janieve Russell, and Andrenette Knight.
In the jumps, Tajay Gayle and Wayne Pinnock headline a stacked long jump group including Carey McLeod, Shawn-D Thompson, and Nikaoli Williams. The women’s triple jump stars Shanieka Ricketts, Ackelia Smith, and Kimberly Williams. With Stona out, Ralford Mullings and Fedrick Dacres lead the men’s discus, while Olympic medallist Rajindra Campbell is favoured in the shot put.
These Championships will determine teams for the World Championships, NACAC U23 & U18, and Pan Am U20 events. For many, it’s a gateway to the global stage; for others, a shot at redemption. The countdown is on. With pride, places, and national prestige at stake, Jamaica’s National Championships are ready to thrill.
