Jamaica’s most decorated female sprinter, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, has officially announced that the Jamaica National Championships, running from 26–29 June, will be her final race at Kingston’s National Stadium. This emotional farewell will serve both as a closing chapter in her illustrious domestic career and a bid to qualify for her last World Athletics Championships in Tokyo this September.

‍

Speaking at a Nike‑hosted reception at the AC Hotel, she revealed,

“In the next two days, it will be my final time gracing the National Stadium … honestly, it’s one of those moments that I’m looking forward to … I have absolutely nothing to lose and all to gain."

During her speech she emphasized the significance of the moment, stating:

“When I stand on that track on Thursday, it’s not for me. It’s for you. For the love, for the support, for the encouragement, for the resilience, for the pride, for the purpose, and the passion that you have given me."

With over two decades at the top of global athletics, the 38-year-old sprinter, fondly nicknamed the Pocket Rocket, has amassed two Olympic golds, three Olympic silvers, and an astonishing ten World Championship titles, making her one of the most successful sprinters in the history of the sport.

‍

Earlier this year, Fraser=Pyrce signalled her return to competition by running 10.94 seconds at the Velocity Fest 17 in Kingston, a promising time, albeit wind-assisted. However, an injury setback at the Paris Diamond League, which forced her to pull out of the 100m semi-finals, has left her determined to finish on her own terms. Beyond the track, the sprinter has been focused on giving back. In partnership with Nike, she recently launched a grassroots initiative to provide proper footwear for primary school athletes, aiming to eliminate barefoot running among Jamaica’s young talents.

The farewell event drew praise and support from across Jamaican society, with Prime Minister of Jamaica, Andrew Holness, members of the sporting fraternity, and key sponsors including GraceKennedy and Nike all in attendance. As one of the greatest athletes Jamaica has ever produced, Fraser-Pryce’s final run at the National Stadium is expected to be a poignant and historic moment—not only for fans, but for the sport itself.

As she prepares for this final home‑stadium sprint, Fraser‑Pryce reminds us: her farewell is bigger than medals; it’s about inspiring future generations.