Jason Morgan Wins Bronze as a Discus Thrower at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow

Jason Morgan says his life-long mission as a throws athlete was always to show the world that Jamaica’s potential in track and field exceeded sprints.

And his medal win spoke volumes.

The 31-year-old discus thrower, who won bronze at the XX Commonwealth Games at Hampden Park on Thursday evening, said he hopes his success here has proved his point.

“My plan was to go out there and make a difference and break down barriers and let the world know that Jamaicans can run, Jamaicans can throw and jump,” he told the Jamaica Observer after his 62.34m heave.

For young throwers in Jamaica, Morgan had a message. “I am saying, not everybody is fast; we are strong, so let’s throw far.”

His first senior medal win was as a result of “determination and dedication”.

Though grateful for his third-place finish, Morgan is let down by the fact that he was not able to take up a more prestigious position on the medal podium.

“I am definitely disappointed as I could have won it (gold). But I think God definitely has a plan as this bronze medal means a lot and I am just appreciative of it,” he noted.

But as he revels in his personal glory, the national record holder with a throw of 67.15m has invited others to come share the moment.

“This means a lot, not just for me personally, but for Jamaica and the people who never stopped believing in me – supporters, family and friends… this is for them all,” he said.

Morgan’s medal is Jamaica’s third in the field at these games. O’Dayne Richards in shot put and Kimberly Williams in the triple jump were gold medal winners.

Morgan’s bronze will stand proudly in his collection, which includes a silver medal at the 2006 Central American and Caribbean Games.

He also competed at the 2007 World Championships and 2012 Summer Olympics without reaching the final.

— Sean Williams

Jamaica Observer