Wilson can deliver under pressure - McKay

CORPORAL Oshane Wilson, strongman on the mixed Dragon Boat team representing Jamaica at the August 30-31 Bahamas International Dragon Boat Festival at Goodman’s Bay, Nassau, earned his place on performance in training, unlike his teammates, who were selected after winning the mixed-team title at June’s Jamaica Dragon Boat Festival.

Having impressed in training, Wilson, a 300lb powerlifter, is confident he can complement strength with the coordination needed to deliver for Jamaica under the stress of international competition.

The McKay Security-sponsored team has been in training at Port Royal for the Bahamas International, which is expected to draw participation from teams across the Caribbean and North America, including a high-school team from Trinidad and Tobago and competitors from Oregon in the United States.

Pointing to his job of serving the Jamaica Constabulary Force in stressful capacities, Wilson believes his leadership qualities will come to the fore in The Bahamas.

Jason McKay, who captains the squad made up of two former footballers and internationally decorated martial artists, said his experience of training athletes gives him an eagle eye for talent and tenacity.

“I have competed and trained so many athletes in international competition, combat sports, that I can spot who will crack under pressure,” McKay pointed out.

“Wilson is a remarkably strong athlete with the unique ability to perform in high-stress environments. His performance in training makes me confident he will deliver on the day when representing his country,” McKay added.

Though in training in the relatively calm Kingston Harbour, McKay has warned that Bahamas will be tougher.

“From what I have been told, the seas in The Bahamas are rougher. Jamaicans are relatively inexperienced in Dragon Boat racing, However, 70 per cent of this squad are international athletes who can adjust, as they have proven by winning gold medals all over the globe for Jamaica,” said McKay.