Omar McLeod

Still on an emotional high after his record-breaking performances at the ISSA/Grace Kennedy Boys and Girls' Athletic Championships two weeks ago, Kingston College star hurdler Omar McLeod is eager to fly into Bahamas to take on the best of the Caribbean's junior athletes at his pet events, at the Carifta Games that begin in a few days' time.

McLeod is a senior member of a very strong 70-member team that leaves for The Bahamas today as Jamaica looks to win a 29th consecutive title. At Champs he destroyed his high-school opposition in the 110-metre hurdles, with a new record 13.24 seconds and became the first and only schoolboy in Champs history to break the 50-second barrier over the 400-metre hurdles.

accomplishments

"Emotionally, I am still enjoying those great performances, but I am now trying my best to stay humble and trying to maintain those great accomplishments," he said.

The bad news for his potential rivals who will face him at the Robinson National Stadium is that he intends to be even better once the games begin.

"I would love to go much faster but I am also going out there to enjoy myself," he said.

Since his epic performances at Champs, McLeod said he has been doing light work mainly sprinting in an effort to maintain his sharpness. So far he is feeling like the work is paying off.

"At this point I am feeling sharp and fit and ready to rumble," he said.

He added that he has not been paying attention to any potential rivals from the region.

"One thing I do not do is watch my competitors. I just go out there and deliver like it's my last performance."

Omar McLeod of Kingston College salutes his supporters after smashing the Class One boys 110 metres hurdles record in the final. McLeod set a new mark of 13.24 seconds. - File