It was not to be the golden day Jamaica had expected as an injured Alphanso “The Ambassador” Cunningham competed in the Men’s F53 shot put at the Rio Paralympic Games, bowing out in the first round.

A recurrent back injury prevented the multiple medallist from giving the usual authoritative display of expertise and experience which only champions have, and Cunningham has proven consistently in the international arena that he has the credentials.

“I could hardly do the job. The work continues and I will get over this injury and put this unfortunate occurrence behind me,” said a disappointed Cunningham.

The gold went to Che Jon Fernandes from Greece with a throw of 8.44m, which was a regional record. The silver went to Scot Severn from the USA in a season’s best of 8.41m, and the bronze went to Asadollah Azimi from the Islamic Republic of Iran with 8.14m.

Cunningham’s campaign at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games has ended, but in July of 2017 he will begin another at the IPC World Athletics Championship in London.