When it comes to Athletics, there is hardly a more compelling and competitive rivalry than a Jamaica versus USA showdown. As the anticipation builds in this championship year, we look at a few memorable rivalries between the two sporting powerhouses.
Bolt Vs Gatlin
The Usain Bolt and Justin Gatlin square-offs provided an interesting match-up for track fans, with the US sprinter providing that ever-present competition to challenge the Jamaican’s dominance. In addition to Bolt’s imperious form at meets, Gatlin’s contention spurred more excitement during the races, which were much-watch activities even among non-track fans.
The two clashed ten times over 100m, with Bolt leading that match-up by a staggering eight wins with two losses.
Powell vs Gay
In one of the most competitive rivalries in male sprinting history and among the most entertaining is the Asafa Powell vs Tyson Gay, The showdown, which spanned from 2006-2019, saw the sprinters face off 23 times, with the Jamaican and former World record holder Powell edging that match up by beating Gay 12 times.
Fraser-Pryce vs Carmelita Jetter
Arguably one of the longest and fiercest contests in sprint history. Sprint icon Shelly-Ann Fraser Pryce and American speedster Carmelita Jetter squared off 33 times in 100m over eight years(2008-2016) in a near-decade treat among track fans.
Fraser-Pryce, has a 19-14 clash lead, including their final race against each other at the 2016 Racers Grand Prix in Kingston. Shelly is set to retire following the 2024 Olympics.
VCB vs Jetter
Before the Jetter, Fraser-Pryce battle began, Carmelita’s showdown with the legendary Veronica-Campbell-Brown(VCB) dominated track interests. Races between the two put an exclamation mark on attraction to female sprinting, with the two assiduously dueling for top honours each meet.
The two which are listed among athletics all-time greats, battled 33 times over the 100m with VCB taking the advantage 20-13, in addition to her dominance in the 200m leading Jetter 4-1.
Richardson vs Jackson
In what has developed into the new standout rivalry between the sprinting nations, 200m World Champion Shericka Jackson and 100m Champ Sha’Carri Richardson are expected to deliver thrilling encounters for the next few years, starting this season, following a scintillating 2023.
The athletes who claimed sprint tiles over the respective distances last year have raced 11 times since 2021, with Jackson leading the head-to-head in the 100m 5-4 and 3-0 in the 200m.
