No other domain has athletes taking their sport to heights as track and field. Keeping an eye on the daily updates, even in the recent Laureus Sport honor nominations, mostly track stars are on the lookout. But one thing about them we can’t miss is that they write stories that go beyond wins and podiums. One such is the bond between Jereem Richards and Deon Lendore, who were part of the Trinidad and Tobago 4 x 100m relay team for years.

On January 10, 2022, Deon Lendore lost his life in a car crash in Milam County, Texas, his homeland. The unforeseen news sent shockwaves throughout the track nation. But the impact on Richards’ life and career still resonates to this day, which received a unique adoration from retired sprinting star Justin Gatlin.

Track and field icon Justin Gatlin accolades Jereem Richards

At the 2022 World Indoor Championships, 30-year-old Jereem Richards moved past his adversaries to clinch the 400m win. He broke three records that day, one was the national record of 45.05s, held by Lendore. That event had the world rallying as Richards ran with all his heart and soul for his former relay partner, Deon Lendore. It was not only his career-best but also a move that garnered global love. When Rori Dunk said on his Instagram post, “You’ve kept his name living on”, Justin Gatlin felt it.

He commented, “THIS IS WHAT MAKES SPORT STORIES SPECIAL. WHEN STOP DOING IT FOR SELF AND YOU DIG DEEP AND COMPETE FOR OTHERS. GREAT JOB”. The Belgrade crowd came to Richards’ feet as he heaved a sigh of relief at achieving a feat for his friend. After Lendore’s death, the Deon Lendore Foundation was established to inspire young athletes and educate their families for the children’s academic and athletic growth.

Jereem Richards has a special place for Lendore

According to December 2023 news, the 2022 Commonwealth Games 200m gold medalist left some good words for his late friend. “Deon was a genuine person. He genuinely cared about all the athletes from my generation and always wanted everyone to do good. Deon was definitely one of the greatest ambassadors for Trinidad and Tobago”, he said.

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The eulogy also read, “He paved the way for the generation headed to college. He set a high standard for us”. With the foundation going strong, it’s enough proof that Lendore has left an indelible mark on the track and field world. If Richards makes it to the Olympic team again, he will still have his long-term relay comrade in his prayers.

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