Kennedy determined to capture 400m title after early 2021 Champs exit
Published:Monday | March 28, 2022 | 12:05 AMDaniel Wheeler/Staff Reporter
Edwin Allen High School’s Delano Kennedy will represent Jamaica in the 400 metres at the Carifta Games next month. However, he says that he has unfinished business to complete at this year’s ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls’ Athletics Championships (Champs) after his 2021 season ended prematurely.
Kennedy currently has the second-fastest time, 46.97, in the Class One boys; 400m with a time of 46.97 seconds, which he set at the Carfita Trials en route to victory and a place in the team.
While pleased that he will be able to compete in front of his family for Jamaica in two weeks’ time, the immediate focus, he says, is to ensure that an early Champs exit does not repeat itself.
Kennedy was disqualified for a lane violation last year, seeing his chances for a medal disappear after an injury-affected season. This year, he says, a resolute attitude to correct his flaws and a health campaign, so far, has given him the confidence that the title is a real possibility.
“My season is going well so far, because last year I had some cramping, and this year I am training injury-free,” Kennedy told The Gleaner. “In training, I try to stay in my lane to make sure that I don’t have to experience that (disqualification) again.”
Kennedy will be facing competition from St Jago High’s Gregory Prince, who has the fastest time this year with 46.31 seconds, which he set on March 15 at Central Champs, as well as Kingston College’s Shaemar Uter, who has the third-fastest time this year with 46.99, which was also set at the March 13 Carifta Trials.
REDEMPTION MISSION
With stiff competition expected, Kennedy says that it has been important for him to concentrate on his own strengths and technique, rather than the field, in his quest to complete his personal redemption mission.
“I have to stay focused, follow my race strategy and try not to change that. I would like to come back with the gold medal. I have been working hard for that medal from the season started,” Kennedy said. “I told myself that I want that medal and a good personal best.”
However, he says that the prospect of being able to compete at the National Stadium at the Carifta Games is something that he is eager to share with his family, which would be the best way to cap off his 2022 season.
“I’m looking forward to it because all of my family and teachers can get a chance to come and see me represent Jamaica,” Kennedy said.