The 2025 Jamaican National Athletics Championships, held on June 27, brought an electric atmosphere to Kingston’s National Stadium as sprinting icon Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce competed in what may be her final national championship. Despite not winning the women’s 100m title, the love and admiration from the crowd clearly marked her as the people’s champion.
Fraser-Pryce, a veteran of the track, faced tough competition from rising stars such as Tia Clayton, Tina Clayton, and Shericka Jackson. The stakes were high as she sought to secure her place for a final appearance at the World Athletics Championships.
In a thrilling race, Fraser-Pryce finished third, clocking a time of 10.91 seconds, behind Tina Clayton, who took gold with a time of 10.81 seconds, and Shericka Jackson, who secured silver in 10.88 seconds. Although Tia Clayton was among the frontrunners, an injury forced her to withdraw, dampening her pursuit of the podium.
Reflecting on her performance, Fraser-Pryce noted, “I tried not to be too emotional and focus on my race, but I felt the love and I felt the support, and I’m truly grateful for it,” as she addressed jubilant fans and broadcasters.
The excitement continued as the men’s 100m final featured Olympic silver medallist Kishane Thompson, who lived up to expectations by clinching his second consecutive national title with a blazing time of 9.75 seconds. Oblique Seville followed closely, finishing in 9.83 seconds, while Ackeem Blake rounded out the podium, clocking in at 9.88 seconds.
As these top athletes now prepare for the upcoming 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan, scheduled for September 13-21, fans can anticipate thrilling performances from both the men’s and women’s sprinting elite.
