MVP Track and Field coach Stephen Francis receives a plaque from JAAA's vice-president Grace Jackson-Small at a ceremony to honour the achievements of Sherone Simpson, Asafa Powell and himself at a luncheon held at the Hilton hotel in Kingston yesterday, December 13, 2006. - Anthony foster

World-renowned coach Stephen Francis believes the Jamaica Amateur Athletic Association (JAAA) has finally got out of the blocks by honouring top athletes for their achievements.

"I have been one of the harshest critics of the JAAA, because I always felt that an annual ceremony was required and not necessarily by the Carreras or RJR Sports foundation to honour athletes," the out-spoken Francis said after he and Asafa Powell, along with Sherone Simpson were honoured by the JAAA at a luncheon held at the Hilton hotel yesterday.

"And I am hoping this is the first of many to come," he added, while saying this was something he had argued for over the years.

"This is really, really appreciated," he said,while thanking Herb Mckenley, Glen Mills and Dennis Johnson as the persons who taught him the art of coaching.

Powell, who along with Simpson and their coach Francis, received plaques from the JAAA and theycould be considered Jamaica's Male, Female and Coach of the Year in Track & Field.

Powell, who spoke before Francis, said: "Just continue supporting us as we go out and make Jamaica proud."

"I hope you have something (another one) planned for next year, because we are going to give our best next year ... anything nice, we have to do it twice," he joked.

Presentation

Herb McKenley also presented Powell with his IAAF plaque for his world record equalling 9.77 seconds, which was done for the second time on August 18.

Simpson was also grateful for her award.

"Thank you JAAA for showing Asafa, coach Francis and me that our hard work have been appreciated," she said.

Meanwhile, president Howard Aris, in his speech, hailed the two sprinters, along with others, for sustaining the tradition of Jamaica's strong sprinting, which he said was started by Norman Manley and Herb McKenley.

"We have been able to sustain these performances over the years," he said while making it clear that the standard had dropped for many countries. He said as for the world record, Powell is continuing the work, which Mckenley, who once held five world records, started in 1948.

"Asafa, you are maintaining the standard," Aris said.

He continued: "Today we must rejoice and pay tribute to these two athletes and their coach," he added.

Feedback:

anthony.foster@gleanerjm.com