Joining Shericka Jackson and Elaine Thompson, Alana Reid Reveals Her Desire to Express Her Individuality

It’s hard to stand out amidst a bunch of overly talented groups of athletes and Alana Reid will be doing just that. Jamaica, as it is well known, is buzzing with track and field talents. For the last few years, the country has dominated in both the men’s and women’s categories of track and athletes.

Following the same tradition, Alana Reid is one of the budding stars with a massive potential for Jamaica. However, ahead of her lies big names like Shericka Jackson, Shelly Ann-Fraser-Pryce, and more. Thus, the constant comparison is bound to happen. This is where Reid wants to make her mark. Appearing in a recent interview, the 19-year-old second-fastest U20 sprinter spoke about creating her own legacy. 

Alana Reid is a distinctive trendsetter in a world full of frailties

The 19-year-old athlete recently sat down with Fitzroy Dunkley to discuss her plans ahead of the Olympics. Navigating a plethora of topics, at one point, the host asked Reid about how she fits in among the other Jamaican female greats. Reid immediately responded by saying that in order to perform well at the top level, she needs to concentrate and have her focus straight. 

Further doubling down on the comparison with the likes of Elaine Thompson and Shericka Jackson, she said, “I know they have more experience… so it’s just for me to kind of not follow them but just have my own path.” Reid also doubled down on the fact that, while trying to establish herself with a separate identity, things will definitely be difficult. But she must not be phased by the obstacles and instead, grind and end up on the sunny side. 

Speaking about her struggles, Reid commented, “I have days when I have water in my eyes because I’m like I don’t know where I am going… But I know that things take time.” However, rising to a level at 19 where Reid is being compared to the legendary athletes of Jamaica, is no mean feat. Surely, a look at her records will justify the hype around the teenage sensation. 

A glimpse at Alana Reid’s shining armor

When Alana Reid appeared at the ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls Athletics Championships in Kingston, not many people gave her a chance. However, by the end of the race, the teenager crumbled a 22-year-old record of Veronica Campbell-Brown. Reid broke the previous 11.13s record by clocking 10.92s, becoming the second-fastest runner in U20. Reid displayed her impeccable speed at the NACAC U23 Championships when she became the first female under 18 years of age to clock under 24 in the 200m category. 

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Come the 2022 U20 Championships, Reid clinched her first international medal by winning bronze before securing the 100m gold at the CARIFTA Games last year. Now with her eyes set on Olympic glory, it will be interesting to see how Alana Reid grinds her way to establishing her athletic legacy. 

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