KINGSTON, Jamaica— Sports Minister Olivia Grange on Friday extended congratulations to all the Jamaican athletes competing in the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, while highlighting the hard work that brought them to this world stage.

“Your dedication, perseverance, and hard work over the years have brought you to this remarkable stage. We encourage everyone to continue striving for excellence,” Grange said in a statement to the media.

She went on to recognise the achievements of all Jamaicans who have already competed at the event, but also noted those who would have stood out in their respective events.

“Stand-outs at the current Olympics include silver medallist Kishane Thompson, and our field events athletes who have revived our early Olympics pursuits  with discus  gold medallist  Roje Stona; triple jump silver medallist Shanieka Ricketts; long Jump silver medallist Wayne Pinnock; shot put bronze medallist Rajindra Campbell and men’s sprint hurdles bronze medallist, Rasheed Broadbell,” Grange noted.

The sport minister also issued special commendation to Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce who was not able to face the starter for the 100 metre final due to injury concerns.

“I want to specially recognise our most decorated female athlete at major championships, Ambassador Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce OJ, CD, who also competed in the Olympic Games. Shelly continues to be an outstanding ambassador for Jamaica and we are proud of her consistent and high quality representation,” Grange commented.

The minister said she also wishes to send encouragement to Shericka Jackson and back-to-back former Olympic Champion, Elaine Thompson-Herah, who were not able to grace the track during the Paris Olympics due to injury.

“To Shelly-Ann, Shericka and Elaine, I say your country loves you, takes pride in your achievements and is forever grateful for your excellent representation,” Grange concluded.

Minister Grange noted that Jamaica’s achievements in the field events date back to our earliest participation in the regional, international and Olympic pursuits in the 1930s.

She said the fact that Jamaica’s first medals at the current Games were in the field events is a demonstration of the country’s wide range of talent.