STATEMENT FROM MOST HON. PRIME MINISTER P.J. PATTERSON, PRIME MINISTER, RE: VERONICA CAMPBELL’S OLYMPIC GOLD MEDAL

Every Jamaican is celebrating the triumphant victory by our very own Veronica Campbell in the Women’s 200 metre finals at the games of the 28th Olympiad in Athens, Greece. As it was with the historic win by Deon Hemmings in Atlanta, the National Anthem of Jamaica will be heard.

Jamaica has a long tradition of high performance in the field of athletics. The accomplishment of Veronica at the Olympics etches another indelible moment in the legacy of success by our fine athletes. Arthur Wint, Herb McKenley, George Rhoden blazed the trail for Don Quarrie, Lennox Miller and George Kerr. Merlene Ottey, Grace Jackson and Juliet Cuthbert placed our female sprinters on top of the world. As we commend Veronica on her brilliant victory, we note with considerable pride that her colleagues are in fine form and well poised to be the source of more rejoicing in these games and the years to come.

We commend Veronica on her brilliant achievement and applaud all our Athletes in Athens who have achieved new personal records in Athens. We expect them to be inspired, to remain focused and give of their best. They can be assured of the support of our nation and the entire Caribbean.

Heartiest congratulations once again to our great Olympic Champion and best wishes to the team for the remainder of the competition.