Renowned Jamaican Track and Field Coach Paul Francis Honored with Order of Distinction
Jamaica’s Heroes’ Day celebrations were made even more special this year as national honorees were recognized for their outstanding contributions to various fields. Among them was Paul Francis, a well-known track and field coach who was awarded the Order of Distinction in the rank of Officer for his services in the field of sport.
Paul Francis, along with his brother Stephen, co-founded the MVP Track and Field Club, which has produced some of Jamaica’s most successful track and field athletes. The club has been instrumental in nurturing talents like Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Elaine Thompson-Herah, and Asafa Powell, who have represented Jamaica on the international stage and brought home numerous medals.
In an interview after receiving the prestigious award, Francis expressed his gratitude and humility, stating, “I am excited by the fact that the Government could recognize some of the efforts, and it is a very humbling experience. I am very motivated to try even harder, not to get an award, but to continue doing the things that I do best – which is to change lives.”
The ceremony held at the National Indoor Sports Centre in St Andrew also saw other notable individuals being honored for their contributions. Hansle Parchment, the 2020 Olympic Games 110m Hurdles champion, was awarded the Order of Distinction in the rank of Commander, while his coach, Fitz Coleman, received the Order of Distinction in the rank of Officer for his exceptional work in track and field.
Veteran football coach and Jamaica Football Federation Technical Director, Wendell Downswell, was recognized for his contribution to the development of football with the Order of Distinction in the rank of Officer. Dr. Paul Wright, a respected physician, was also honored for his services to the field of medicine and his work in developing the Jamaica Association of Sports Medicine.
Overall, the awards ceremony celebrated the achievements of these individuals who have made significant impacts in their respective fields, enriching Jamaica’s sporting landscape and inspiring future generations.
