Jackson at peace over 100m withdrawal

Paris, France

BACK-TO-BACK WORLD champion Shericka Jackson says that with the focus now solely on the 200 metres, she is at peace with the decision not to attempt the sprint double at the Paris Olympics this year.

Jackson confirmed the decision at PUMA’s media day yesterday ahead of the women’s 100m, which starts at 4:00 a.m. (Jamaica time) tomorrow.

Shashalee Forbes will replace Jackson in the line-up for the women’s 100m, which also features decorated sprinter Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and Olympic debutant Tia Clayton.

Jackson’s health status has come in for scrutiny since July when she pulled up during a meet in Hungary. Jackson said that based on discussions between her and her coach, the decision was made to preserve her body after three consecutive seasons competing in the sprint double at major championships.

“I’m always at peace. You have to make decisions that are best for your body and your mind and your soul. I think I am okay with the decision that coach and I made,” Jackson said.

“The decision was just to protect my body. For the last three years, I have been competing in both events, and I think it’s a combination of both.”

Jackson was a part of a Jamaican sweep at the Tokyo Games in 2021, led by double-sprint Olympic champion Elaine Thompson-Herah.

Jackson entered the Games having successfully defended her national title in 10.84 seconds. Prior to the national championships, she had only run one 100m race this year.

Jackson, who is looking for her first Olympic medal over 200 metres, says being at the big show for a third time makes her a seasoned competitor.

“For me it is always the same. Whether it is an Olympic or World Championship year, you always want to keep your goal the same. It’s just to stay focused and have fun while doing it,” Jackson said.