Jamaican sprinters and jumpers capture NCAA Division 1 gold in the United States

Jamaican athletes delivered gold-medal performances at the NCAA Division 1 Championships in the United States over the weekend, with Shenseea Walker taking the women’s 100 metres title and Shanieka Ricketts winning the women’s triple jump final.

Walker, a former St. Jago High standout who is now a senior at Florida State University, crossed the line in 10.88 seconds to secure the sprint crown. She finished ahead of University of Georgia athlete Edidiong Odiong, who was considered the race favourite and placed second in 10.93 seconds.

Another Jamaican, Gabrielle Matthews of the University of Florida, placed sixth in the 100 metres in 11.12 seconds.

Walker, 23, said her improvement came after reviewing her performances and sharpening the closing phase of her race. She said she was especially pleased with the win because the straight sprint events are her preference. Speaking about representing Jamaica while competing on the United States collegiate circuit, she said: “big up to Jamaica. Speed capital.”

In the field events, Ricketts, competing for Clemson University, produced a 14.24-metre effort to win the women’s triple jump. She was described as a former St. Jago and Excelsior High athlete.