Shericka Jackson Likely to Miss Paris 2024 Olympics, MVP President Confirms
KINGSTON, Jamaica – Shericka Jackson, Jamaica’s national record holder and two-time World Championships 200m champion, is facing the prospect of missing the 2024 Olympic Games at Stade de France. According to Bruce James, president of MVP Track Club, Jackson is still struggling with an injury sustained during a meet in Hungary last month.
In an interview with TVJ on Monday, James shared that Jackson’s chances of competing in the relays are slim. “It would be safer for Jamaica not to have her run,” James explained. “The worst scenario would be for Shericka to take the anchor leg in the 4x100m relay and not be able to finish.”
Jackson had already stepped aside from the 100m event, allowing Shashalee Forbes to take her spot. However, she made a last-minute decision to withdraw from the 200m event on Sunday, leaving Niesha Burgher and Lanae-Tava Thomas to represent Jamaica.
Despite multiple attempts to get her ready, Jackson’s injury proved too severe. “We decided, as a precaution, that she shouldn’t run the 100m,” James said. “When she got to the 200m heats, the faster she ran, the more pain she felt in her legs. We have to prioritize her health and well-being, and putting her at risk for further injury would be irresponsible. That’s why we made the difficult but necessary decision to have her sit out.”
Adding to the disappointment, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce will also not compete in the event.
Ian Kelly, Chef de Mission for Jamaica’s Olympic team, confirmed the news, stating that while the absence of Jackson and Fraser-Pryce is a setback, the team is still in strong form. “We brought in Kemba Nelson this week, and we have other talented athletes in our pool,” Kelly said. “Shashalee Forbes, Alana Reid, Kemba Nelson, and Tia Clayton will compete, and we are confident they will represent our country with strength and experience when the event kicks off on Thursday.”
