Jonielle Smith, despite injuries and setbacks, remains determined to represent Jamaica and shine at the upcoming Paris Olympic Games.
When Jonielle Smith burst onto the global athletics scene in 2019 few could have predicted the challenging journey that lay ahead for the Jamaican sprinter.
After clinching the sixth spot in the women's 100 metres final at the World Athletics Championships in Doha and clocking a personal best of 11.04 seconds, Smith's career trajectory seemed set for stardom.
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16:28 - 31.01.2024
ATHLETICS Why Beatrice Chepkoech competed in the 5000m at third Athletics Kenya meet
Beatrice Chepkoech has disclosed why she chose to open her season with the 5000m race at the third Athletics Kenya weekend meet.
However, the subsequent years have been a test of resilience and determination for the former Wolmer’s Girls’ School and University of Auburn athlete, who just celebrated her 28th birthday.
A former Carifta Games Under-20 and Central American and Caribbean Games 100 metres gold medallist, she also shone at the collegiate level for Auburn, securing the title of South Eastern Conference (SEC) 100-metre runner-up and earning the prestigious All-American honors.
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11:00 - 31.01.2024
ATHLETICS Vincent Kipkemboi returns to torment Eliud Kipchoge at Tokyo Marathon
Vincent Kipkemboi, the man who gave Eliud Kipchoge a run for his money at the 2023 Berlin Marathon will be out to torment him once more at the Tokyo Marathon.
Despite her early successes, the journey since has been marred by relentless challenges.
"For me, it has been all about injuries since 2019, including a car accident, back, hamstring, and recently shoulder injury, which has been very frustrating for me. I haven’t been allowed to display my talent in the sport,” Smith disclosed to the Jamaican Gleaner.
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08:00 - 31.01.2024
ATHLETICS Fast-rising Australian athlete tipped to inherit Usain Bolt's throne
Athletics Australia President Jane Flemming has identified a 16-year-old boy who she believes will turn out to be like Usain Bolt owing to his physique and running style.
Her stint at the MVP track club for the past two seasons has been a period of rehabilitation and cautious optimism.
Yet, amidst the setbacks, Smith's resolve remains unshaken. With an eye on the Paris Olympics, her determination is a testament to her spirit.
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22:00 - 29.01.2024
ATHLETICS Tensions brewing between Sha'Carri Richardson and Jamaican youngster Alana Reid
A track insider has opened up on potential beef between Sha'Carri Richardson and upcoming sprint sensation Alana Reid of Jamaica.
“Obviously, I want to make the national team this year and go to my first Olympics, as I want to have that super feeling like I had at my first World Championships experience,” she asserted.
Her goals extend beyond mere participation; Smith envisions reclaiming her status as a formidable force on the track, yearning for consistency and dominance in her performances.
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17:03 - 30.01.2024
ATHLETICS Ferdinand Omanyala confirms first international race to usher in Olympic season
Africa's fastest man Ferdinand Omanyala has disclosed when he will make his first international appearance as he prepares for the Olympic Games.
Reflecting on the disappointments of the recent past, including a hopeful but ultimately thwarted comeback last year due to another injury, Smith acknowledges the emotional toll but refuses to capitulate.
Her resilience is further bolstered by the competitive ethos ingrained during her high school years in Jamaica, a culture that teaches athletes to remain vigilant and competitive, regardless of their current standing.
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20:40 - 29.01.2024
ATHLETICS Eyebrows raised as Shericka Jackson postpones season opener again
Shericka Jackson has raised eyebrows after postponing her season opener for the second time in a row.
In the face of burgeoning talent and the relentless march of time, Smith's philosophy is clear: awareness without fear.
“No, I am not [afraid], but I am aware,” she confidently stated.
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20:09 - 30.01.2024
ATHLETICS Mary Moraa frustrated by slow start to her season
Mary Moraa was dissatisfied with the time she clocked as she opened her season at the third Athletics Kenya Meet.
Her strategy is one of meticulous attention to detail and a respectful, honest approach to her body's signals.
“Just don’t count me out. I am paying attention to the simplest of details. Not playing superhero with my body, being honest with myself, so if it hurts I am not going to compete with it,” she shared.
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15:03 - 30.01.2024
ATHLETICS Veteran racewalker Samuel Gathimba sets Olympics and All Africa Games targets
Veteran racewalker Samuel Gathimba will be out to fly the Kenyan flag high as he eyes the Olympic Games and All Africa Games.
As the Olympic stage beckons, Jonielle Smith stands ready, fortified by lessons of the past, and hopeful for the triumphs the future may hold.
With each race, each training session, and each day, she builds towards a comeback that might not just surprise her fans and competitors, but also redefine her athletic narrative.
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