‘It’s a blessing’, says Morgan of Puma deal

Jason Morgan, who set a new national record in the discus in 2015, is looking forward to being even better in 2016 and perhaps even win an Olympic medal in Rio this summer.

He has reason to be optimistic. Training has been going well, he is working with a team of coaches, and best of all, he has a shoe contract with apparel manufacturer Puma that is expected to run until the end of his career.

In other words, things are looking up for the 33-year-old 2014 Commonwealth Games bronze medallist, who in June last year set a national record of 68.19 metres in Pearl, Mississippi.

It was the second best throw in the world for 2015.

"I am working a part-time job while I train and at this moment, training is going hard and well. I have a set workout plan and different cycles for the season. I also have a couple of great coaches that will assist me on the road to the Rio Olympic Games," he said. "I have great support and a management team, and it's a blessing to have Puma as my sponsor."

training in preparation

For the past few years, Morgan has endured great financial difficulty while training in preparation to represent Jamaica. Earnings from his job, plus some financial support from the Jamaica Athletic Administrative Association (JAAA), were not enough to allow him to take care of his family, train, cover medical expenses and travelling to competition.

He believes his work ethic and affable personality helped land him the Puma contract, revealing that officials there have told him that they have always admired his will power and hard work, as well as his character.

The deal he signed with Puma last December now allows him greater freedom to focus on his preparation for what could be his last Olympic Games.

"It's like a dream come true," said Morgan of the shoe contract. "They have supported Jamaica's track and field and the world's best athletes. They will assist me on the rest of my journey. It's a blessing to be able to be part of a pioneer brand, and I will continue to inspire and break down barriers, and give young and old people hope to believe in themselves, no matter what the journey."