2 months ago
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Kerrylee Ricketts, who conditions Olympic women’s triple jump silver medallist Shanieka Ricketts, says track and field athletes, especially those who are not among the elite in the sport, face massive financial challenges.
Ricketts says the financial challenges often lead athletes to having to make the difficult choice between patriotism and pragmatism.
Ricketts was speaking with Nationwide Sports in light of the decision by two of Jamaica’s Paris Olympic medallist to switch allegiance to Turkey on Thursday.
Discus gold medallist Roje Stona and shot put bronze medallist Rajendra Campbell are now looking to wear the colours of Turkey at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
Ricketts says he understands the reality of their situation.
Ricketts who is also Shanieka’s husband, says she had opportunities to compete for other countries, but chose to stay loyal to Jamaica.
Ricketts says to this day, his wife had no regrets and is happy with her decision to stay loyal to country.
Kerrylee Ricketts.
English (US) ·