OUTSTANDING Petersfield High past student Alexis James has been in love with track and field since the tender age of six. Now, more than a decade and multiple medals later, the talented sprint hurdler has her eyes set on bigger goals as she aims to refine her talents and become a household name in years to come.

The versatile athlete, with an impressive track record that includes winning gold in the 2023 Carifta Games in the 100-metre hurdles, and securing gold in the 4x100m Under-20 relay, has always sought out the best ways to balance her academic and athletic pursuits. Although this balancing act has posed challenges, her unwavering determination fuels her resilience, never allowing her to give up.

“It’s very hard to balance everything. I’m often tired after training but I don’t allow this to be an excuse. I try to do all my assignments before going to bed because I don’t want them to pile up and eventually make me feel overwhelmed,” shared James.

When it comes to striking that balance between academics and athletics, she has come to realise that the best way forward is to clearly identify her personal goals and map out a feasible plan of action. She explained, “Anything can happen — one injury could be the end of your career. I recognise that academics may not be for everyone but I believe it is important to be knowledgeable so that if anything does happen, you have something to fall back on. My balance is not perfect, sometimes one aspect gets more focus than the other so I think it is also important to not be too hard on yourself but to keep in mind what keeps you motivated.”

The 19-year-old was recently accepted to The Mico University College to pursue a Bachelor of Education in Physical Education. Despite gaining multiple offers from universities and colleges abroad, she decided to remain in Jamaica and attend Mico so as to represent her country on the international stage and expand her academic horizons.

“A lot of people wondered why I didn’t choose to focus only on athletics. The reality is, I wanted to ensure that while I train to become the best athlete I can, I am also learning and growing as a person along the way. Hopefully, I can pass on this knowledge to those who come after me, which is why I chose the field of education,” the newly minted Miconian passionately expressed.

James was recently awarded the first-ever Island Grill Athletic Scholarship, valued at $500,000 per year, for her four-year degree programme. A heart-warming ceremony was held on October 4 to commemorate the momentous occasion. Also present in support was her father, Everton James, who beamed with pride when asked about his daughter’s accomplishments. “I’m overwhelmingly happy; it’s well deserved. She works very hard to achieve her dreams,” he said.

The dynamic hurdler added that she is pleased to be the first-ever Island Grill ambassador, and is excited for what the future has to offer.

“This scholarship has greatly impacted my path, and I appreciate all my sponsors for believing in me and my potential. Their kindness has been a great source of motivation for me to continue to strive to be better and go beyond what I thought was possible,” James expressed.

For other student athletes who are having a hard time, she advises that they find what motivates them and use it as fuel to achieve their dreams, both in the world of athletics and academics.