Wednesday, August 27, 2008

What Jamaican Olympic Sprinters can teach the World in Leadership, Workforce Training and Sportsmanship

By Annmarie Edwards



"This Caribbean nation, which once got a few chuckles by fielding an Olympic bobsled team, is no joke when it comes to track and field"
(http://www.nbcolympics.com/trackandfield/news/newsid=238925.html#sprinters+jamaicas+national+treasure)

What the world doesn't know about Jamaica
is that Jamaicans take sports seriously from kindergarten up to the high school level. Preprimary students challenged one another in racing. On uneven grounds scattered with boulders and pebbles you can hear pounding feet as little ones try to beat their competitors.

Students at the primary and secondary level have the opportunity to show their competence in sports and other competitions through organized sports. School events are early starters for athletes who show early sign of excellence in representing their country. Coaches hand picked athletes who showed sign of having excellent sports record to compete internationally. It is not as easy as an onlooker would think. The process is hard and grueling but the outcome is well worth the effort.

"…how a nation of nearly 3 million known for its reggae music and beaches can produce such phenomenal runners."
(Associated Press, August 10, 2008 (http://www.nbcolympics.com/trackandfield/news/newsid=238925.html#sprinters+jamaicas+national+treasure).

It is all about self-discipline
in following guidelines, setting goals and work towards them. In any field of training whether it is sports, workforce or trade you have to have a plan of action and follow through with it. Showing the human spirit in whatever you do will help you to outperform your competitors on any day. Having a strong will to go beyond your drawbacks and focus your intent in achieving your goals is a guide for success.

Jamaican sprinters at the 2008 Olympic games
show the world what hard work and self-determination can lead to. The size of the country doesn't have anything to do with performance. It is the mind of the people that makes the difference.

Sportsmanship is a trait Jamaicans aspire
in showing spirit, determination, and camaraderie. The team spirit is eminent as players in the field work together for a common goal. The training leads up to excellence is a combination of hard work and spirit. There are dietary guidelines to follow as well as time earmarked for training. You've to build your stamina by following guidelines and having self-discipline in achieving your goals.

Mr. Golding the Prime Minister of Jamaica
said that "the quartet showed the true meaning of confidence, determination and focus in capturing this elusive race. 'Jamaicans should take from this, a lesson to never give up as we are destined for great things and our success at Beijing China, is just the start," Mr. Golding said.(http://jis.gov.jm/officePM/html/20080825T100000-0500_16449_JIS_JAMAICA_HAS_REWRITTEN_OLYMPICS_HISTORY____SAYS_PM_GOLDING.asp

Mr. Golding, the Prime Minister of Jamaica speech
is applicable to all field of training. Leadership needs to set the stage for excellence earlier on so victory in accomplishment is celebrated wholeheartedly. It is a time of bliss for Jamaicans in setting this world record in sports as well as teaching the world that self-determination and spirit can beat all the odds. A well deserve honor for Jamaicans.


Annmarie Edwards is a workforce trainer who makes commentary on workforce training and issues on her workforce blog. Stay tuned for more tips…

Copyrighted © 2008 by Annmarie Edwards

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