Grange congratulates Thompson and Fraser Pryce

Rio de Janeiro, August 13, 2016 – Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the Honourable Olivia Grange, has congratulated the new Olympic sprint champion Elaine Thompson and the bronze medallist Shelly-Ann Fraser Pryce.

Thompson won the women’s 100 metres final this evening in Rio de Janeiro in a time of 10.71 seconds while Fraser-Pryce, who was the defending champion, finished third in 10.86 seconds to take the bronze medal.

Minister Grange said:
“Elaine Thompson is an amazing athlete with a great future. I am very happy for her victory and glad that the Olympic women’s champion for the 100 metres remains a Jamaican.

Shelly-Ann Fraser Pryce held that championship title over the last two Olympics. Tonight the baton passed to her friend, training partner and compatriot, which means that the title remains in Jamaica. Shelly-Ann has been a great champion and we will always celebrate her achievement.

By winning gold and bronze, Elaine and Shelly-Ann have demonstrated to the world the strength of Jamaican track and field that we could claim 2 of the three medals on offer in one of the marquee events at the Olympics.

Well done to the both of them.”

Commentary

We join with Sports Minister Grange in congratulating Elaine Thompson and Shelly-Ann Frazer-Pryce on bringing glory to Jamaica.

The rise of Thompson was interfered with by certain elements who were trying to turn back progress. Sports shod be judged on performance only.

Congrats to both Sprint Queens … we are proud of you as you have been superb ambassadors.

Commentary by Hopeton O’Connor-Dennie is Senior International Correspondent & photojournalist for Vision Newspaper Canada.