Jarmila Jackson, Features Writer

Asafa Powell (in white shirt), a member of Jamaica's gold medal 4X100 metres Olympic team, reaches out to fans during yesterday's homecoming celebrations for the Olympic athletes. - Deputy chief photographer/Norman Manley

TRAFFIC CAME to a halt in Kingston yesterday as thousands of jubilant fans turned out to celebrate the return of Jamaica's athletes who successfully competed in the Beijing Olympics in August.

Some waved flags, screamed, shouted and blew whistles in an exuberant display of support for the Olympic heroes on day one of the Government's 11-day homecoming celebrations.

A motorcade featuring the Beijing contingent began at the Harbour View round-a-bout, proceeded east to Michael Manley Boulevard on to Port Royal Street, before going to Marcus Garvey Drive and the Portia Simpson Miller Square in Three Miles.

Outburst of nationalism

The procession eventually ended at the National Stadium.

Beijing gold medal winners, Usain Bolt, Veronica Campbell-Brown, Melaine Walker and Shelly-Ann Fraser were among those soaking up the outburst of nationalism.

The convoy had floats decorated in brilliant shades of black, red, green and gold and displayed images of the athletes. Effigies of members of the team were also placed at points along the journey.

"This is truly a day to remember," said Anika Thompson as she craned her neck to see above the horde. "We are so proud of them all. I had to take the day off to come see this."

Spectacle

Supporters came from all over to take part in the spectacle. Some rocked to dancehall music while others ran alongside the floats, arms outstretched, desperately trying to touch their heroes.

Those who could not see through the dense crowd sat on top of bus stops, cars and buses to try to get a glimpse of the action.

Jamaica won 11 medals at the Beijing Games, the country's best showing since making its debut at the London Games in 1948. Bolt was the star of the two-week championships, winning three gold medals: he won the sprint double and was a member of the winning 4X100 metres relay team.

The celebrations continue today with the Olympic Sports Gala at the National Stadium.