LIMA, Peru – Jamaica’s women’s 4x400m relay team has successfully secured their spot in the final at the World Athletics Under-20 Championships, held in Lima, Peru. In a thrilling preliminary race on Friday, the team placed second, narrowly edged out by Colombia at the finish line.
Running three minutes 38.04 seconds, Jamaica clinched an automatic spot in the final, with Colombia clocking in just a fraction faster at three minutes 38.01 seconds. The Jamaican team’s commendable performance was marked by key contributions from all its members.
Abrina Wright gave the team a strong start. She passed the baton to Shanque Williams, who, along with Anecia Campbell, managed to open up a significant 25-metre lead during the race. However, a spirited anchor leg by Nahomy Castro of Colombia clocked at 52.65 seconds managed to catch Jamaica’s Fletcher, who completed her split in 55.10 seconds, just inches before the finish line.
Despite the close finish, Williams expressed her pride in the team’s effort and their progress to the finals. “I’m feeling good just to get into the finals; we are very proud, we’re extremely proud and thankful,” she said. Williams also noted the physical toll of the competition, mentioning her participation in the final of the mixed 4x400m on Tuesday and the two rounds of the individual 400m she had completed earlier.
As the team prepares for the final race on Saturday, their performance provides a boost of confidence and optimism for the Jamaican camp. The dedication and resilience displayed by the young athletes stand as a testimony to their hard work and the promising future of Jamaican track and field.
