Simpson Miller

PRIME MINISTER Portia Simpson Miller yesterday congratulated World Record 100m holder Asafa Powell on becoming the first Jamaican male to win the International Amateur Athletics Federation (IAAF) Male Athlete of the Year award.

She also heaped praise on his coach, Stephen Francis, and Maximum Velocity Club (MVP) teammate Sherone Simpson who had been on a three-member shortlist for the female performer of the year award.

In a faxed release, the Prime Minister said:

"It is with great pride and joy that I pay homage and congratulate the new IAAF Athlete of the Year, Jamaica's son of the soil, Asafa Powell.

"In garnering this prestigious distinction, Asafa has become the first Jamaican male, and second, behind Merlene Ottey, to win this award."

She added: "Asafa's performance underpins the notion that hard work, dedication, commitment and discipline have their place in the world of success.

"It is heartening to point out that Asafa is home-grown, home-trained and community driven, factors which played a great role in his achievements.

"It behooves me to convey heartiest congratulations as well to his parents for nurturing and instilling the values of honesty and humility on his path to greatness."

The release continued: "Coach Stephen Francis must also be congratulated as he once again demonstrates that athletes can attain the highest distinction while being prepared here at home.

"Words of praise must also be offered to Sherone Simpson, who although she did not win the female equivalent, represented the nation brilliantly this year as well.

"On behalf of the Government and people of Jamaica, I say well done, Asafa. May you continue to conquer more worlds throughout your illustrious career."