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Jamaican hurdler, Jaheel Hyde, surged to victory in the men’s 400m hurdles at the Pan American Games, signalling a historic moment for Jamaica as it secured its first gold in the event since 1987. This triumph not only adds a shining medal to Hyde’s career but also raises Jamaica’s profile in the athletics world.

Hyde’s Historical Win

At the Pan American Games held at the Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez Prádanos in Santiago, Chile, Jaheel Hyde stood out as he sped across the finish line in 49.19 seconds to clinch the gold medal. This victory wasn’t just a win for Hyde; it was a groundbreaking moment for Jamaica at the Pan American Games, marking the nation’s first men’s 400m hurdles gold in over three decades.

Hyde’s performance left his competitors gaping in his wake. Brazil’s Matheus Lima was close in pursuit but had to settle for silver with a time of 49.69 seconds, while Yoao Illas of Cuba completed the podium, securing bronze in 49.74 seconds.

Jamaica’s Medal Tally

Hyde’s success at the Pan American Games added to Jamaica’s overall performance, as one of six medals for the nation in Santiago. The country’s medal haul included commendable achievements from other sports as well, with cyclist Dahlia Palmer, discus throwers Fedrick Dacres and Samantha Hall, and wrestler Aaron Johnson all contributing to the nation’s success.

Hyde’s victory serves as a reminder of the country’s sporting excellence and its athletes’ relentless pursuit of glory on the global stage.

Photo – Instagram 

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World-renowned Jamaican sculptor Basil Watson has won the 2023 United Kingdom Public Statues and Sculptures Association (PSSA) Marsh Award for Excellence in Public Sculpture for his work, “The National Windrush Monument.” Watson’s award-winning sculpture is located at Waterloo Station in London and presents a strong visual narrative through figures of a man, woman, child, and their suitcases to symbolize the importance of the migration of people from the Caribbean, many of them from Jamaica, to the UK after World War II on the ship, “HMS Windrush,” to be part of what is now known as the “Windrush Generation.”

The Sculptor’s Response

Watson expressed delight at having his work recognized by the PSSA with the presentation of the Marsh Award and described winning as “a great honor.” He thanked all those who voted for his work as their favorite piece. He said the artwork is meant as a “tangible and evocative reminder” of a momentous period in human history. He explained that the work was done to stir the public’s emotion, and now to have the public vote in record numbers to give him the award was “overwhelming.”

Public Response

People in the UK who are members of the Windrush Generation and their heirs have had a strong emotional response to Watson’s monument, which honors their ambition and courage. Watson shared that he had seen people “moved to tears” at the monument, which was developed with £1 million in government funding. He added that the community probably never thought its experiences and contributions to the development and culture of the UK would be remembered in this way.

Life and Works

Basil Watson was born in Kingston, Jamaica in 1958. His father is painter Barrington Watson, and his brother is sculptor Raymond Watson. He studied at the Jamaica School of Art before becoming the leading sculptor in Jamaica. He moved to the United States in 2002 and established a studio and his home in Lawrenceville, Georgia. He was presented with the Order of Distinction, Commander Class, by the Jamaican government in 2016 in honor of his artistic accomplishments. His most notable works in Jamaica include the 2006 “Balance” installed at Doctor’s Cave Bathing Club in Montego Bay for the club’s centennial celebration; the 2006 statue of sprinter Merlene Ottey, installed at National Stadium in Kingston; and the 2009 sculpture of sprinter Herb McKenley, also installed at National Stadium. An internationally recognized artist, Watson has completed major artworks in China, Guatemala, and several states in the US, along with commissioned works for governments and organizations worldwide. “The Windrush Monument” is his first public artwork in the UK.

His Personal Windrush Voyage

Watson said that creating “The National Windrush Monument” was his own “personal Empire Windrush voyage” as it had transported him along a journey from his past to his future. He shared that the monument had brought insights into his past that seemed “meaningless dots” in his history and linked them to his present experiences. The work also brought him a  new perspective and appreciation of who he is. Watson hoped that commuters traveling through Waterloo Station would understand that the attitude and mission of the Windrush Generation were heroic.

Photo – Prime Minister Andrew Holness’ Facebook Page

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This is a Podcast of the Jamaica & Caribbean Weekly News Summary for the week ending November 10 2023 JAMAICA WEEKLY News Summary Podcast is brought to you by Jamaicans.com. For past Jamaica & Caribbean Weekly News Podcasts please visit our archives

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Mariann Morgan, a remarkable 10-year-old student from Redwood Primary School, has achieved an extraordinary honor by becoming the youngest child ever to be included on a mural at her school in Jamaica. The unveiling of this awe-inspiring artwork took place on November 2, 2023, at Redwood Primary School, marking a momentous occasion for both Mariann and the entire school community.

Mariann Morgan’s Academic Achievements

Mariann’s inclusion on the mural is a testament to her exceptional talent and achievements. Late last year, she emerged as the victor of the prestigious Peter Gracey’s This is Jamaica Poetry Scholarship Competition 2022, an impressive accomplishment in itself. Her poetic prowess and outstanding performance not only secured her the coveted scholarship but also earned her the distinguished role of ambassador for the competition.

Adrianna Clark, President of THIS IS JAMAICA stated, “The mural is a vibrant and captivating masterpiece, serves as a visual celebration of Mariann’s triumphs, immersing the school grounds in a wave of inspiration and pride. As Mariann attends school each day, she will be greeted by the empowering sight of her own image, reminding her of her incredible journey and accomplishments.

Peter Gracey This Is Jamaican Mural with Mariann Morgan & Redwood Primary School Teacher – TIJ 2023 Poetry Winners

Inspiration for Jamaica’s Youth

Mr. Peter Gracey, who is the poet and author of the popular poem “This is Jamaica”, and also the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council Representative for the Southern United States, said in a statement, “The psychological effects of such encouragement cannot be overstated. Seeing her picture on the mural while attending school will undoubtedly instill a deep sense of confidence, self-belief, and motivation within Mariann. It serves as a constant reminder of her own potential, reinforcing the notion that dreams can indeed be turned into reality with hard work and perseverance. This is exactly what the THIS IS JAMAICA organization is about. Our mission is to empower the children of Jamaica to restore and preserve their culture through poetry and the creative arts”.

Marianne’s achievement represents a beacon of hope for all young students, demonstrating that age is no barrier to greatness.

Redwood Primary’s principal, Mrs Evanne McCoy reminded us that “Redwood Primary School prides itself on nurturing talent and providing a supportive environment for its students to excel. The inclusion of Mariann’s image on the mural symbolizes the school’s commitment to fostering the growth and development of its young learners.”

The THIS IS JAMAICA Organization, the Jamaica Diaspora Council in the Southern United States and Redwood Primary School, extend their deepest congratulations to Mariann Morgan for her extraordinary achievements and for becoming an inspiration to children across Jamaica. The school also expresses its gratitude to Peter Gracey’s “This is Jamaica” Poetry Scholarship Competition for recognizing Mariann’s immense talent and providing her with a platform to shine.

Photo – This is Jamaica

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