FORMER Captain Jason McKay won a hard-fought bronze medal and three points towards his Jamaica combined martial arts team 2017 qualification bid in his first-ever appearance at the Oregon Open in Hood River, United States of America.

After a good start in the preliminary rounds, McKay advanced to the final as favourite, but lost a close match to Germany. Under the tournament’s double-elimination rule, he did not win an automatic silver, but had to fight off with the towering Lawrence Archer, whom he had beaten in the preliminaries.

Archer, at 6’2” and heavier than the 5’8” McKay, adjusted for the second match-up after being outsped by his smaller opponent in the preliminaries. The big American safely kept his distance and used his reach to better the Jamaican veteran.

McKay said revamping his training regime to include strength workouts with new sponsor Unique Concepts Gym has complemented his usual rigorous cardio preparations.

“I felt the need to include an intense weightlifting programme into my preparations, and this gym had incredible coaches such as Camendo Thoms and others,” he said.

“I have received great training, a lot of support, and assistance from all coaches and many members who have assisted me with my unorthodox cardio and strength programme.

“I didn’t take the gold, but I am pleased with where I am in my preparation. I will peak at the intended time. I felt good through the hard rounds,” he added.