Anthony Foster, Freelance Writer

Osaka World Championship silver medallist Maurice Smith (right), on his arrival at the St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church for his homecoming celebration yesterday, takes a baby from one of his friends. - photo by Anthony Foster

HUNDREDS OF fans braved the rains yesterday to turn out at Above Rocks, St. Catherine, to show their support to a son, hero, brother and neighbour - Maurice Smith, Osaka's 2007 World Championship silver medallist.

Carried through the rain in an open-back Toyota van, Smith covered himself with an umbrella as he was taken from Parks Road to Above Rocks in a special motorcade.

Onlookers made their way to the roadside to wave and say hello to their hero, who was born and went to school in the area.

On arrival at the St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church, Smith, who was accompanied by his Brickhouse International Sports Management agent, Juliet Campbell, was greeted by more fans who braved the rain to watch him enter the church.

In the two-hour long homecoming ceremony, which was organised by Smith's former school - St. Mary's All-Age and his management group, several tributes were made while others sang.

Aleen Bailey

Students from Calabar and St. Mary's All-Age, Everton Park Basic, all former schools of Smith, also performed at the ceremony, which was attended by Olympic Games sprint relay gold medallist Aleen Bailey.

Everton Park Basic school did a poem after which the students told Smith: "We are proud of your excellent performance."

One of the groups from St. Mary's All-Age stated in their poem, "He is the best decathlon athlete ... he had the best intention when he came second."

In response, Smith, who finished second at the World Championships with a national record of 8,644 points, first thanked God for making it all possible.

"I feel appreciated to see everyone coming out to support me ... I hope you guys continue to support me," Smith said.

anthony.foster@gleanerjm.com