Small team, big performances expected at 2023 World University Games
Published:Sunday | July 30, 2023 | 12:11 AMOrane Buchanan - Staff Reporter
DESPITE HAVING only three athletes at the 2023 World University Games in Chengdu, China, Paul Beckford, head of the Jamaican delegation and president of the Intercollegiate Sports Association, is eyeing big performances from the group.
Beckford was hoping to have more entrants at the games but his disappointment has not lasted long.
“My initial proposal had a 16-member contingent but due to financial challenges, we had to cut to 12, then 8 and then this is where we finally reach. The mood within the camp is good as they’ve settled in quite well and they’ve commenced their various training sessions in collaboration with their coaches back home,” said Beckford.
Jamaica will be represented by the trio of Kadrian Goldson (men’s 100m), Mickaell Moodie (women’s 100m) and Kai Chang (men’s discus throw).
From the three, Beckford is expecting at least one medal.
“They feel as if they’re home and they’re ready for whatever is ahead of them. To be honest, I’m confident that we (Jamaica) will get a podium finish. I can’t say who and in what area but I have that confidence that we’ll be coming back with at least one medal,” said Beckford.
Goldson, who comes into the championships with a personal best time of 9.94, achieved earlier this month, believes he’s in the right shape to produce a massive championship performance and make the country proud.
“I’m still in great shape. I’m feeling healthy, so I’m definitely looking forward to a good result next week. I’m going for a good time and with World Championships coming up next month, I want to achieve a good time to really secure my spot. The atmosphere is also good as it’s almost similar to Jamaica, but just a little bit warmer,” Goldson highlighted.
Chang will be using the games as a ‘revenge tour’ after he missed out on a World Championships spot, finishing fourth at the recently concluded JAAA/PUMA National Senior and Junior Championships.
“My intention is to win. I didn’t come here to just be a participant and place anything less than a medal-placing spot. I want to walk away with the gold medal as I missed out on the World Championships team at the passed trials. I was really disappointed so I want to come out here and give it my all and use that energy from Trials to make my stamp at this event,” Chang voiced.