Racers Grand Prix 2025: A Showcase of Jamaican Excellence

The Racers Grand Prix, held on Jun. 7 at Kingston’s National Stadium, delivered a night of thrilling performances and unforgettable moments. Known for producing iconic sprinting displays, the event once again proved why Jamaica remains a sprinting powerhouse on the global stage.

 A Quick Overview

First launched on June 11, 2016, the Racers Grand Prix is now part of the World Athletics Continental Tour Silver series. Despite not yet reaching Diamond League status, the meet’s increasing prestige, high-quality organization, and world-class talent make it a leading Caribbean athletics event (World Athletics, 2025; Jamaica Gleaner, 2025).

This year’s event stood out not only for its on-time execution—a rarity among local meets—but also for its engaging fan experience. Music, giveaways, and sponsor booths contributed to an electric atmosphere, inspired in part by the well-reviewed Grand Slam track meet earlier in the season.

 Performance Highlights

 Kishane Thompson Makes a Statement

In just his second race of the season, Kishane Thompson stunned the crowd by clocking 9.88 seconds (0.0 m/s) in the men’s 100m. It was a massive statement win against countryman Oblique Seville, who finished second in 9.97 seconds—a commendable time given his recent recovery from injury.

Critics had questioned Thompson’s readiness for elite competition, but he silenced them with a world-class performance.

 Bryan Levell’s Breakout 200m

Rising star Bryan Levell stormed to a 19.79swin in the men’s 200m. Though wind-aided, the performance lit up the stadium, showcasing his growing potential. His powerful curve running and strong finish were unmatched.

Christopher Taylor, making a courageous comeback, followed in 20.39 seconds, indicating depth in Jamaica’s male 200m pool

 Tina Clayton’s Resilient Return

After dealing with injury in 2024, Tina Clayton returned with intent, winning the women’s 100m in 10.98 seconds. It was a bold reminder that she’s still a force on the track.

Her twin, Tia Clayton, who appeared strong early in the race, unfortunately slowed mid-way, possibly due to cramping. Fans remain hopeful for her quick recovery.

 Rasheed Broadbell Sets Meet Record

In the 110m hurdles, Rasheed Broadbell smashed the meet record with a time of 13.06 seconds. Known for his aggressive approach to the hurdles, Broadbell’s race showed improved control. Experts suggest he’s inching closer to the national record and is well-positioned to challenge global contenders, especially under the guidance of MVP Track Club.

 Roshawn Clarke’s Triumphant Return

Fresh from an injury at the Miami Grand Slam Track Meet, Roshawn Clarke showed remarkable resilience, comfortably winning the men’s 400m hurdles in 48.77 seconds. He edged out Assinie Wilson (also 48.77) in a tight finish. The performance underlines Clarke’s maturity and confirms the continued progress of Jamaica’s 400m hurdles scene.

 Shericka Jackson Still in Command

Double world champion Shericka Jackson won the women’s 200m in a smooth 22.53 seconds. As she prepares to defend her world title in Tokyo, the race showed she is regaining form post-injury. Her performance reassured fans that she remains one of the top contenders heading into the championship season.

 Racers Grand Prix Atmosphere & Organization

Beyond the track, the Racers Grand Prix delivered a memorable spectator experience. Live music, enthusiastic fans, and a high level of professionalism set it apart from other local meets that often suffer from poor time management and disorganization. This year’s seamless flow and punctuality were widely praised and set a new benchmark for Jamaican meets.

 Conclusion: Jamaica’s Track Legacy Marches On

The 2025 Racers Grand Prix proved once again that Jamaica remains at the forefront of sprinting excellence. From veterans like Shericka Jackson to breakout stars like Bryan Levell and Kishane Thompson, the future of track and field looks bright.

Equally impressive was the event’s level of organization and showmanship, marking a new standard for local meets. As fans left the stadium buzzing with excitement, one thing was clear: the Racers Grand Prix is no longer just a stop on the calendar—it’s a statement. And if this year is any indicator, its rise to Diamond League status may just be a matter of time.