Prime Minister Holness Commends History Making Jamaican Olympians
Prime Minister Andrew Holness has congratulated and commended gold medalist and Olympic record holder 25-year-old Roje Stona on his historic medal for Jamaica.
Stona secured Jamaica’s first gold medal at the 33rd Olympiad in Paris, France and the first gold in a field event at the Olympics in stunning and resilient fashion.
Stona threw 70m to beat the world record holder.
Jamaica is now ranked at 28th on the medal tables at the Olympics, securing 1 gold, 3 silver and a bronze medal so far.
“I want to congratulate Roje Stona on winning gold in the discus at the Olympic Games in Paris. This is the first time that a Jamaican has won the discus at the Olympics. Roje has done his family proud, and he has brought tremendous joy to our country. Indeed, he has reminded the world that Jamaicans are resilient people. We are talented people, and we are capable of not only doing well on the track but we also shine brightly in the field events. His performance shows the world that Jamaica, ‘likkle but wi tallawah.’ We are proud of you, Roje, and we celebrate your major achievement,” said Prime Minister Holness.
The Prime Minister also recognized the efforts of all athletes now putting their heart and soul into their sport and representing the country with pride.
In particular, Prime Minister Holness pointed out that our athletes in the field events have risen to the occasion and are reaping success in international sport.
Rajindra Campbell also made history as the first Jamaican man to win a medal in the Men’s Olympics Shotput, winning bronze in the event. Shanieka Ricketts and Wayne Pinnock medalled in their respective field events, and Kishane Thompson secured silver in a nail-biting men’s 100M final on Sunday.
“Our athletes compete with the pride of all Jamaica with them. We congratulate and are immensely proud of our athletes who medal, and we commend everyone who wears the black, green and gold and represents Jamaica. Our athletes also perform at a time to lift the Jamaican spirit during our 62nd Independence celebrations.”
Prime Minister Holness has also paid tribute to decorated Jamaican athlete and Olympian Shelly-Ann Fraser Pryce, who is competing in her final Olympic games.
“Shelly has a special place in our hearts. Though disappointed that she did not start the semi-finals of the 100M, as a nation, we are proud of her and salute our Ambassador.”
Our athletes are aiming to attain 100 medals since Jamaica first began Olympic competition in 1948.
“I urge all Jamaicans to cheer on all our athletes. Support them, big them up, and keep them positive and focussed as they represent us on the world stage. I also encourage everyone to use their social media pages and posts wisely to keep our athletes motivated,” encouraged Prime Minister Holness.