Williams targets Commonwealth spot after shattering record in the USA

National junior discus record holder Cedricka Williams says she is eagerly anticipating a return to Jamaica as she targets a strong showing at the JAAA National Championships and a place on the country’s team for the Commonwealth Games.

Williams, a former standout at Holmwood Technical High School, has been in impressive form this season. She recently set a new school record at the University of Tennessee with a throw of 60.57m, breaking the previous mark of 60.56m that had stood for nearly 50 years.

“I am looking forward to going to the National Trials because I have not been home in three years since I have been over here in the United States,” said Williams.

“ I know the competition is going to be tough because all the other ladies are very good competitors but I know that I am going to be up for the challenge.”

Williams, whose personal best stands at 61.07m, is currently the second-ranked Jamaican in the event this year with a mark of 60.07m. Samantha Hall, ranked seventh in the world, leads the national standings with 66.39m.

Williams, 21, who battled a number of injuries last season which caused her to miss the National Championships, noted that things have been going well so far and therefore she is just working on improving her overall performance in the throwing circle.

“So far things have been going good and I am just trusting the process and working harder on the technique that I am missing and just trusting in God,” she said.

“I am just mentally staying strong and just pushing hard every day and listening to my coach by following his instructions at all times,” Williams shared.

She underscored that one of her main aims is to throw 65 metres this season.

“This year, my target distance is 65 metres and so I just have to improve on my technique and take care of my injuries and eat properly, and just continue to work hard and not to rush anything and just stay motivated,” Williams pointed out.

“I have been doing all of these things but it has been rocky but I am just trusting myself. My plan is to come to the National Trials and win the competition and be the National Champion.”

Despite her strong performances, Williams has had to battle injuries along the way, including a torn shoulder and tendonitis in her throwing arm last year, as well as an ankle sprain during the indoor season.

“Last year, I had a torn shoulder injury with tendonitis in that shoulder as well, which is my throwing arm. At the indoor championships, I had a sprain in my ankle and I am trying to fix those as well as fixing my technique as well,” Williams said.