By Noel 'Bravo' Francis, Special to TrackAlerts.Com

Jamaica topped the medal table at the 8th IAAF World Youth Championships in Donetsk, Ukraine, with 6 gold and 2 bronze medals. The country is on the verge of equalling or perhaps surpassing that performance at the 9th edition in Cali, Colombia.

One of the athletes who should make a significant contribution to Jamaica’s medal tally is Junelle Bromfield of St. Elizabeth Technical High School (STETHS). Bromfield more renowned for her middle distance running will be competing in the girls’ 400m hurdles event. Earlier this year, she and her coach made the switch, which may prove to be a master stroke and turning point in Bromfield’s track & field career. KalieseSpencer made a similar career move years ago at the senior level and is now reaping the rewards.

Bromfield’s quest started out promisingly winning the STETHS Invitational in January and copping the silver medal at the Western Championships in February. She then looked completely commanding in the Under-18 category at the 2015 CARIFTA trials running two world-leading times of 58.76 and 58.13 seconds in the heats and finals respectively in March.

She had a disastrous outing in her heat at ‘Champs 2015’ where she failed to clear the first hurdle comfortably, stopping abruptly and did not finish the race. However, she bounced back magnificently at the 44th CARIFTA Games in St. Kitts, with a well executed run, winning gold in a record 59.55 seconds in the Under-18 400m hurdles final.

She is likely to face sterner competition in Colombia; however, the credentials of her rivals’ will not deter the powerful striding Bromfield. Her main goal is to win gold in her first year competing at this level. If Bromfield should claim the top prize, it would be nothing short of a fairy-tale ending for an athlete blessed with 400m speed and middle distance strength. 

About the Author:
Noel ‘Bravo’ Francis is a very exciting and creative freelance sports writer specializing in the fields of athletics and cricket. His colourful down to earth yet professional personality makes him a favourite amongst athletes and fans. Readers are often exposed to his detailed knowledge and passion which usually increase their interest in the athletes, events and the sport overall. He has a first degree in Banking & Finance and works in the financial industry. Contact Noel at [email protected]

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