Dear Editor,

Last Sunday afternoon, Jamaica time, the nation held its breath in sheer anticipation at what was about to unfold at the 2019 IAAF World Athletics Championships over there in the luxurious Khalifa International Stadium in Doha, Qatar.

There was no Usain Bolt around this time. There was no Asafa Powell to cramp the show this time. The stage was now set for the history books to be rewritten. The cynics who had written her off did so at their own peril.

The manner in which Mommy Rocket announced her presence in the first round, as well as in the semi-finals of the 100-metre sprint for women was truly an indication that even more and better was to come. Her stealthy guile and serene composure sent a chilling caution up the spines of her much-abled counterparts that she was back for good.

Let us not forget her two countrywomen who also deservedly made the mouth-watering final.

The moment of reckoning had finally arrived.

A colourful fanfare ushered each of the eight worthy finalists on to the track; though a paltry-sized crowd was in attendance. The sea of colours in the stadium was quite befitting for a showpiece of this magnitude and stellar pedigree.

Adorned in one of her trademark wigs and clad in the traditional colours of the nation, the diminutive figure of Mommy Rocket eased effortlessly into her blocks with the other competitors.

A hush overtook the stadium. Within a few seconds the starter’s gun disturbed the stillness of the atmosphere with its loud report. The crowd roared as if unleashed. The cacophony rocked the stadium, urging on the runners in sheer excitement.

Mommy Rocket was out of the blocks and led from the start. After the dust had settled, not even a bead of sweat was evident on her brightly lit face – a scene of ecstasy and uncontrollable disbelief. It was as if she had taken an ordinary stroll in the park on a blissful Sunday evening.

The script was finally inscribed. The world of athletics held its breath for a mere 11.19 seconds, but Mommy Rocket just needed 10.71 of those to deliver her fourth IAAF World Athletics Championship gold medal for women in the 100-metre sprint.

She’s a true icon of the sprints and one of the greatest to have ever graced the sport of athletics.

Trebuh Eroom

lpslimited39@gmail.com