An Olympian's Hidden Secrets

When I began nurturing dreams of becoming an Olympic athlete at around age 6, I had no idea that this secret desire would lead me to Atlanta, Barcelona, and Sicily as well as to cities all over the United States. Neither did I think I would witness the speed, power, and prowess of teammates and competitors in every aspect of track and field. Nor could I have dreamt that a good friend and fellow runner would end up being arrested and charged with murder. But these experiences and much more make up the essence and core of my ascent from the tiny town of Exton in St. Elizabeth in Southern Jamaica to the heights of competition and global recognition while I was in my 20s.

As a Jamaican professional athlete, the Olympic medals which I earned and that was presented to me, carried a hard and solid feel. It bounced slightly back and forth on my chest with every step I took. The solidness of the medal compounded the feeling of great achievement. The imagined smell of the metal still gives off in my mind, an aroma that vigorously disturbs the nostrils, leaving me wanting more rewards for the hard work, sweat, and tears that went into it. I tasted the victory all over my imaginary and real taste buds as I soaked up the applause and celebration with all those involved.

Dettagli