Posted by KINGSTON, Jamaica – Two top Jamaican sprinters, Beijing Olympic Games 100m Silver medalist Sherone Simpson and 400m relay Gold medalist Nesta Carter, along with Atlanta’s Olympic bronze medalist in the long jump James Beckford, are yet to submit their entries for the National Championships four days after the deadline date.
When contacted on Wednesday, the ‘Jamaica Amateur Athletic Association’ confirmed they had not yet received any entries for Sherone Simpson or Nesta Carter.
An official further added, "James Beckford’s entry has not yet arrived, however, we have been notified that it’s on its way".
Whilst Beckford could not be reached for immediate comment, the President of MVP’s Track Club Bruce James, explained his athletes’ reasons for not entering.
"Sherone is recovering from surgery whilst Nesta is injured" he said.
He however remains hopeful of Simpson’s participation in the Berlin World Championships.
"Because Sherone is ranked number three in the world in the 100m for 2008, the brand new 2009 JAAA selection policy allows for athletes in Sherone’s situation to receive a medical exemption".
"We within the MVP camp will be monitoring Sherone’s progress as she may still yet qualify to represent Jamaica at the World Championships without participating in the National Champs," James added.
The JAAA rule, according to section seven states, "Athletes who are ranked/listed in the top three in the world for their event, who are ill or injured at the time of the National Championships and are granted an exemption from competing in the Championships, may still be considered for selection providing they are able to prove their world-ranking form, prior to the final submission of the entries for the competition".
However, for Simpson or any other athlete to be granted such an exemption, the rule further explains, "Injured athletes must be examined by the JAAA’s local medical team in order to be declared unfit to compete in the Championships. After examination, the medical team will recommend how soon the athlete will be capable of returning to competition".
Despite these theories, however, James still believes there is a chance Simpson could apply for late entrance.
"In the event that her medical team gives her the clearance to race, she will be entered for the National Championships," he said.
The Jamaica National Championships will be held over three days at the National Stadium in Kingston, starting June 26 thru 28.
Read the full JAAA’s selection criteria
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Lets say Sherone don’t run at the trials, but ready for the World Championships, Kerron wins ahead and Shelly finishes third, and Simone Facey or Aleen Bailey come in second, base on the JAAA’s rule, she will replace Shelly…
Now, I would have to see that happen…the good thing, both are from the same club so mr. Francis could not say too much.
But, in my opinion, I think its best for Sherone to forget about this season and make sure she is ready for the 2011 World Champs.
Good luck ladies.
I agree with Danny that Sherone should sit out of this meet and ensure that she is 100% better before she starts to compete again. The last thing we need is for her to enter the meet and be a complete disappointment like Asafa at Penn Relays….she should rest up and give someone else in “better shape” a chance to represent Jamaica!
What if she competes next week and make the team? If you listened to Bruce, he said she may still compete.
Enigma,
We will just have to wait my yute and see what happens. I hope Franno surprises us and put her in the meet.
Agreed. Amongst other surprises. Franno never disappoints us with a newbie. It can be Annie, Stephanie, Christine, Winston or likkle ole Safa in 9.5 shape…
Likkle ole Safa in 9.5 shape…what r u talking about Enigma?
I assume u r not saying Likkle Safa is going to run 9.5 this season? I don’t see that happening…
i believe she should rest this season because even if she is ready for the championship will she be ready for the worlds as you know most elite athletes are already showing form already and you know the saga between the jaaa and the francis camp