KINGSTON, Jamaica - The Jamaica Teachers' Association has extended their applause to the world's fastest man, Asafa Powell, after the sprinter was named International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) Male Athlete of the Year on Sunday.

Powell, who equalled the world mark of 9.77 seconds twice this season, thus becoming the first man to repeat world records, finished the campaign undefeated and the JTA congratulated the soft-spoken sprinter on his achievements this year.

"The Association lauds the achievements of these athletes and the many other athletes who have, and continue to represent Jamaica locally and internationally," a release from the JTA stated on Tuesday.

"The JTA urges all Jamaicans to view the numerous achievements of our athletes as symbolic of the immense potential of our people," the release added.

The JTA further extended their congratulations to Sherone Simpson on being nominated for the IAAF female crown, as well as the being in the running for the Performance of Year award.

Jamaican-born Sanya Richards, who dominated the quarter-mile all year on her way to earning a share of the IAAF Golden League million dollar jackpot, also received cheers on being named the IAAF Female Athlete of the Year.

Richards, who ran 15 straight victories over her specialty this year, including breaking the 22-year-old American record with 48.70, became the seventh fastest woman of all-time over the discipline.