Jamaican 400m hurdler Roshawn Clarke has been nominated for the 2023 Men’s Rising Star Award by World Athletics. The award recognizes the best U20 athlete of the year, and Clarke is one of three finalists, alongside Erriyon Knighton of the USA and Emmanuel Wanyonyi of Kenya.
Clarke, the Carifta Games U20 Champion, equalled and then broke the world U20 record with 47.85 in Kingston at the Jamaica National Senior & U20 Championships and 47.34 in Budapest at the World Athletics Championships, where he placed fourth.
Clarke’s performances in 2023 have made him one of the most exciting young hurdlers in the world. He is Jamaica’s favourite to win the World Athletics Men’s Rising Star award, and he is also expected to challenge for medals as he continues his career at the senior level.
Ultimately, the decision of who wins the award will come down to the selection by an international panel of experts. They will consider the athletes’ performances throughout the season, as well as their potential for future success. Clarke has a strong case, but he will face stiff competition from Knighton and Wanyonyi.
Clarke’s success is a testament to the strength of Jamaican track and field. Jamaica has produced great hurdlers, including Winthrop Graham, Melaine Walker, and Danny McFarlane. Clarke is the next in line in a long line of Jamaican hurdling greats.
Clarke’s nomination for the World Athletics Men’s Rising Star award is a well-deserved honour. He is a talented athlete with a bright future ahead of him. The world of track and field is eagerly awaiting his next move.