THE EDITOR, Sir:
THE RECENTLY concluded Junior World Games at our National Stadium was a resounding success. It was proclaimed to be the finest ever staged, by no less a personage than the President of the World International Organisation.
Tribute has been properly paid to the Organising Committee, to the volunteers, to all the officials, to all the coaches and to all the athletes who participated from over 150 nations around the world.
The spectators deserve a very special mention because they cheered all athletes who performed and Jamaicans were not singled out for praise. This was a crucial factor to the success story.
It was remarkable to see champions from foreign lands not only hoisting their national flags but also holding aloft the Jamaican flag in appreciation of the non-partisan response of the spectators who made them feel so much at home. Even the Americans were captivated and showed their gratitude in like manner.
The Jamaican athletes performed magnificently and the entire country felt a sense of pride at their achievement especially during the Independence Anniversary period.
One may crave indulgence for specially mentioning the 'Star from the West' Usain Bolt, age 15 years, from the district of Sherwood Content and Falmouth's William Knibb High School. He was motivated by his parents who themselves were former athletes. He was trained academically by the staff at his school and his athleticism was cultured by the outstanding coaches at William Knibb among whom is the redoubtable Insport Officer of Trelawny, Pablo McNeil.
Certainly Usain Bolt is in capable hands for his development, both scholastically and athletically. His performance underscores this fact.
We can look to the future with great expectation from the young Jamaicans who are making their way in their respective fields of endeavour. Jamaica will be richer for their contribution.
I am, etc.,
N.O. EDWARDS
May Pen
