National title a confidence booster for Wilson

Newly crowned national 400-metre hurdles champion Assinie Wilson says capturing his first senior national title has provided a major confidence boost as he sets his sights on even greater success later this season, including a strong showing at the Commonwealth Games.

Wilson secured his maiden national crown at last Saturday's JAAA National Junior and Senior Championships at the National Stadium, producing a winning time of 48.91 seconds. Romario Stewart of  The Mico University College finished second in a personal best 49.43 seconds, while Malik James-King claimed third place in 50.07.

Wilson, who has been Jamaica's leading 400m hurdler this season, expressed delight at finally achieving the milestone.

"Winning the national title for the first time is a good feeling and so I am just going to go back to the drawing board and continue working hard and stay focused," Wilson said.

Despite claiming the title, Wilson admitted that he was not entirely satisfied with his winning time, stating that he is capable of running much faster.

"I know that there is still a lot more to come from me this season because I want to lower my personal best time. This is a big motivation for me, even though, the time that I ran, I wasn't really pleased with it, but winning the national title will boost my confidence a lot," he stated.

Wilson, who is coached by Gregory Little at Titans Track Club, has a personal best of 48.29 seconds, which makes him the fastest Jamaican in the event this season. He achieved that mark at the National Stadium in March.

Wilson pointed out that his national triumph has reinforced his belief that he can compete successfully at the highest level.

"I have told myself now that I can do it because anything is possible, because I am a national champion right now," he said.

The title has also strengthened his hopes of securing more opportunities on the international circuit, particularly in Europe, where athletes often rely on strong domestic performances to attract invitations.

"Once you win the national title, then it will help to get you races on the circuit and people will want to give you races across Europe," Wilson underscored.