#BEIJING2015: Jamaica’s love for Asafa
KINGSTON, Jamaica – Much to the disappointment of many, Asafa Powell, the man who arguably first established Jamaica as the sprinting capital of the world with two world record runs (9.77 and 9.74), again finished outside the medals at a major championship.
In what was the most anticipated and a highly contested 100m World Championship race, Powell seemingly buckled under pressure, finishing an underwhelming seventh with a 10.00s run in Beijing, China, on Sunday.
He was beaten by the likes of world record holder and sprint king Usain Bolt; controversial American Justin Gatlin, who has been in fine form; young sensation Trayvon Bromwell; Canada’s Andre DeGrasse; the ever consistent American Mike Rodgers; and Tyson Gay, who also clocked 10.00s to finish sixth – all notable and worthy opponents.
An understandably disappointed Powell, who copped bronze on two previous occasions (2007 and 2009) at the championships, expressed his disappointment which preceded an apology to fans.
He said: “I am sorry I disappointed and let fans [and] Jamaica down at another championship.”
“I will continue to try and I will continue to motivate myself,” Powell lamented. “I am glad [Usain Bolt] took control and won. #TeamJamaica ALWAYS!”
And, except for the fact that he was the first Jamaican to break a world record, and twice, his humility undoubtedly is how he captured the hearts of many Jamaicans.
And they have reassured him on social media that they are behind him 100 per cent “win, lose or draw”.
“You belong to us, we still celebrate you sir,” one fan wrote.
That sentiment was supported by another fan who said, “You did your best, thanks for representing the motherland”.
Others expressed how “proud” they were of him insisting that they believe he did his best.
“There was a time when you were the Usain Bolt and we will always remember that. We love you Asafa Powell,” another wrote.
Whether he disappoints or delivers, Jamaicans are not giving up on Asafa Powell, at least not anytime soon.