NOT TO take anything from the magnificent achievements of Usain Bolt, Shelly-Ann Fraser and the Jamaican squad (including what may yet come), the story of these Berlin World Championships has got to be Brigitte Foster-Hylton's gold medal-winning 100-metre hurdle run. She, in fact, sums up the heart and soul of the Jamaican people, and their place at these games.

We know it's beyond expectation that one of the smallest countries on Earth continues to have such a disproportionate effect on world sport, and the charming Mrs Hylton had that and more to teach.

Pride and self-confidence

The technical execution of her race and the pure joy of her laughter, on learning of her surprising win, mirrors a nation beaming with pride and self-confidence. She also offers the innocence of what competition should be - the will to do one's best at all costs and to triumph, eventually.

Indeed, as she herself assessed, "This was from the heart".

Congratulations to you, Jamaica.

I am, etc.,

Kevin Young

kevinyoung@coopercarry.com