Sprint super star Asafa Powell has welcomed the new crop of sprinters who are beginning emerge from Jamaica.
Powell, the once world’s fastest man until fellow countryman Usain Bolt came on the scene, was among those who witnessed the likes of Yohan Blake and Nesta Carter, among others – rushing unto the circuit with some masterful performances this past season.
But rather than worrying too much about being replaced by the youngsters, the world bronze medallist admits that the new core athletes will only make Jamaica’s track and field better.
“Local runners are running very well. It started last year, but this year they have gotten a lot faster which is really good,” Powell said.
“We need it. Jamaica is the sprint factory and it will only get better. So just look out for better things to come.”
Carter, who trains with Powell and Blake, who trains with Bolt at the Racers Track Club were the main highlights from that group mentioned by the former world recorder, after running personal bests of 9.78secs and 9.89secs, respectively. Blake also went a stunning 19.78secs for 200m.
Mario Forsythe (9.95), along with and Oshane Bailey, the man who won the Jamaica trials also had a productive year among the local athletes who trained in Jamaica.