Fraser-Pryce in retirement will make foundation grow

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, the most decorated 100m sprinter in history, officially announced her retirement from track and field earlier this month.

While the news was expected, the three-time Olympic champion will be sorely missed at global competitions.

Fraser-Pryce captured the hearts of track fans all over the world for nearly two decades. Her trademark colourful hair, vibrant personality, and explosive prowess on the track were appreciated by the track community.

The 38-year-old track queen hangs up her spikes with eight Olympic medals and 17 world championship medals won, including a silver in the 4x100m at September’s World Championships, her final competition. But her legacy will live far beyond the track, as she continues to empower the next generation through her Pocket Rocket Foundation, which provides scholarships and resources to Jamaican student-athletes.

She emphasised that it is possible to compete at the highest level and be a mother too. Coming from Kingston’s Waterhouse community she overcame hardship and challenges to become a fantastic role model.

 “For nearly two decades, I have made every second count, and I give God all the glory for blessing me with a career in something I have grown to love so deeply,” Fraser-Pryce said.

 “This sport has given me joy beyond measure. It has shaped me, disciplined me, and carried me to heights I could only dream of as a young girl in Waterhouse. Yet as I reflect, I no longer see time only in seconds—I see it in years. The years I gave to sprinting will forever remain among the greatest of my life.

“I am a proud daughter of the soil, and I owe an eternal debt of gratitude to Jamaica.”