I regret representing Jamaica, says Asafa Powell
*Not sure children will do same
One of the greatest sprinters of of all times and Jamaican legend, Asafa Powell has berated his country’s athletics authorities about the poor treatment he received from them during his active years, expressing regret over not switching nationality earlier in his career.
Making a social media post following the viral video of his son effortlessly winning his race during his sports day, the former world record holder unapologetically revealed the poor support system for athletes in Jamaica and why he should have taken the opportunity to run for another country.
“I remember back in 2006, I was offered millions of US dollars to run for another country, and at the time I turned it down because I didn’t know what the future holds. If I knew what I know now, I would have taken up that opportunity,” said Powell.
Further stating the extent of his hurt for Jamaican authorities, the sub-10s king said he has never gotten anything from his country.
No athlete wants to retire and go work 9-5 or sit down struggling and wondering what’s next. We all want to have a good life afterward, money should work for us when we retire,” he added.
“If anything don’t change, none of them (his kids) is running for free. I ran for free my entire life, I ran for Jamaica, just country pride and all that stuff to win a medal and I’ve never gotten anything from the country.”
Backing up his statement, Powell revealed the same fate will not befall his children, so they won’t run for Jamaica except the system changes.
“Honestly guys, if the support system don’t change, my kids not running for Jamaica. Sorry to say that it’s just facts, you know what I mean? My wife is Canadian and Ghanaian so there are options,” stated the two-time Olympic gold and five-time world championships medallist.
