Jamaica’s Shericka Jackson, the nation’s fastest 100m runner this year, has officially withdrawn from the 100 meters at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Jackson, who won the 100m at the Jamaican Olympic Trials with a time of 10.84 seconds, will now focus solely on the 200m.
The decision to withdraw from the 100m event was confirmed by Jamaica’s team manager, Ludlow Watts, in an interview with @TvjNewscentre.
Watts stated, “(Jackson) has given up her place in the 100 meters… all the information that we can provide is that she is not going to participate in the 100m.”
Shashalee Forbes will take Jackson’s place on the Jamaican women’s 100m team.
Forbes, who finished fourth at the Jamaican trials, has a season’s best of 11.03 seconds, achieved during the heats of the trials.
Her selection marks a significant shift, as Shericka Jackson was expected to be a leading contender in the 100m dash.
Jackson’s decision allows her to focus on the 200m, where she has demonstrated exceptional form. She will aim to build on her achievements and potentially secure a top position in her preferred event.
The heats of the women’s 100m are scheduled to start on August 2 at 11:50 a.m. local Paris time.
Jackson’s absence from the 100m creates a notable change in the event, with Forbes stepping in as Jamaica seeks to maintain a strong presence in track and field at the Paris Olympics.
