Historic Gold for Jamaica as Bobsleigh Team Outpaces Canada
Jamaica’s bobsleigh programme marked a historic breakthrough in Whistler after securing its first gold medal at an international event.
Last weekend’s achievement came nearly four decades after the team’s iconic 1988 Olympic debut that later inspired Cool Runnings.
At the International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation’s North American Cup in Whistler, B.C., the quartet of Shane Pitter, Andrae Dacres, Junior Harris and Tyquendo Tracey finished ahead of Canada to clinch the top spot.
Harris described the moment by saying, “It’s just a great feeling, honestly. I can’t find words to explain it.”
According to him, “It just feels real good because our families are proud and the whole island of Jamaica is proud.”
Pitter recalled being stunned when the sled crossed the line and the standings showed them in first place.
Seeing the result, he admitted, “Like, is this possible? Is this what I’m really seeing, first place?”
The significance of the victory has been felt even more deeply as it follows the recent devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa across Jamaica.
Pitter expressed hope that the accomplishment offers people at home “something to cheer for.”
Jamaica’s bobsleigh team, which first competed at the Winter Olympics in 1988 without earning medals, has worked through years of challenges to rebuild its momentum.
A major step forward came with qualification for the Beijing 2022 Games, where Jamaica entered a four-man sled for the first time in 24 years and secured three bobsleigh event berths.
Harris noted that being viewed as outsiders does not hinder their ambitions, saying, “I mean, we’re a tropical island, nobody expects Jamaica to be in the winter sport, winning a gold medal in the international stage.”
He added that belief and commitment to training have sustained the team through its journey.
As preparations continue for a bid to qualify for next year’s Winter Games in Milan, Harris promised that more achievements are on the horizon.
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