THE EDITOR, Madam:
THERE IS an uncanny saying 'life is not fair'. From the corporate world to the field of sports there are unfair and unjust promotions and advancements. Playing a sport is usually a gateway for athletes to build character, and to become a team player in life and on the playing field.
The pinnacle of track and field is the Olympic Games. The most talented and gifted athletes gather every four years at this event to prove they are the best. The preparation takes dedication, perseverance, resilience and talent.
Most Jamaicans who attended the Olympic trials at the National Stadium left with mixed emotions. Our queen and most decorated athlete in sports, Merlene Ottey placed fourth in the women's 100 meters. This position should exclude her participation in the 100 metres in Sydney this summer. I have been an advocate for fair play and will always stand by my beliefs. The decision should be simple, Merlene did not earn a spot therefore should not compete in the 100 metres.
As a past Olympian, I know first hand that it takes races to get an athlete 'race ready' for such competition. Merlene was denied that opportunity due to the ban by the IAAF. The other athletes who participated did not have a controversial positive urine sample and should not be punished for life's mysterious ways. We have seen Merlene in action for the past 21 years; she has medalled in every Olympic Games since 1980 and we are proud of her achievements.
Merlene Ottey has nothing to prove to the Jamaican public, or the world. She will remain the best athlete that I have encountered for many years. There are young gifted athletes in our homeland that will keep our tradition as some of the best athletes in the world. Peta-Gaye Dowdie is young, talented and could be the next Jamaican to run sub 22 seconds if she is more aggressive. She was the winner of the 100 meters and earned her spot. Beverly McDonald placed second and has been a team player over the years especially for the 4X100-meter relay. Last but not least, I do not know Tanya Lawrence but she is talented and has the ingredients to be world class. She placed over Merlene on several occasions in major competitions with respectable times. The athletes mentioned have not tasted victory like Merlene.
The federation cannot justify moving any of the athletes because they believe Merlene will be the one to run sub 11 seconds. No one knows the outcome of the Olympic finals. I know that first hand, therefore Merlene should be the one to stay home.
Merlene you are an icon and an ambassador to our young athletes. You had your chance many times: these athletes are the future of our track programme. It is selfish to say to them that they do not deserve to run in the Olympics this time but wait four more years when you have retired.
I am etc.,
JULIET CUTHBERT-BORDERS
