The Tokyo Olympics 2020 came to a fitting conclusion on Sunday with a closing ceremony that moved audiences at home. Fans were happy to see their favourite athletes back on the grandest stage. One particular set of athletes that always make a mark in the Olympics are the Jamaican sprinters.
This time out, the Jamaican Olympic contingent finished with 9 medals, including 4 gold, 1 silver and 4 bronze medals. The standout performers were the women’s 4x100m relay. The team included the likes of Remona Burchell, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Shericka Jackson, Natasha Morrison, Elaine Thompson-Herah, and Briana Williams.
The latter, aged just 19, participated in her maiden Olympic Games this summer. She won gold along with her teammates as they posted a national record time of 41.02 seconds. They finished well clear of team USA and Great Britain. The latter had set a national record in qualifying fastest for the final but they had to settle for a second successive bronze in the Olympics.
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Briana Williams receives unfortunate news of her grandmother’s demise
SPRINT QUEENS 🇯🇲👑#Olympics 4x100m champions 🥇 in a Jamaican record 41.02 – the second fastest time in history!
Take a bow, @brianastarr21, @FastElaine, @realshellyannfp and @sherickajacko 👏 pic.twitter.com/7GvUJYxWmw
— World Athletics (@WorldAthletics) August 6, 2021
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After her impressive feat at the Tokyo Olympics 2020, Briana Williams expected to return home to Mimi on the back of a huge reception. However, life had another surprise in store for the Jamaican-American sprinter.
Upon landing in Florida, Williams was informed that her grandmother passed away days after she left to compete in the Olympics. She went on to dedicate her debut Olympic medal to her late maternal grandmother.
?Just got home and found out that my dear grandmother, who lived with us, passed away soon after I left for the Olympics. I dedicate my Olympic gold medal to her memory and for all she poured into me. Sleep well, Nenna. Thank you, I love you,? Williams said via Jamaica-Gleaner.com.
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Williams will spend some time with her family as she hopes to deal with this momentous loss. Regardless, we’re sure her granny will be proud for starting her Olympic career on such a high note. More power to you Brianna!
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