Paris Olympics: Jamaican Wayne Pinnock secures silver in men’s long jump

Jamaica: Wayne Pinnock produces a spectacular jump of 8.36M to capture the silver medal in the men’s long jump final at the Olympic Games in Paris, France.

Pinnock finishes behind Miltiádis Tentóglou from Greece, who cops the gold medal and defends his title with the best jump of 8.48m. The bronze medal was bagged by Mattia Furlani of Italy, who jumped 8.34m.

Following his huge achievement, Long Jump Olympic Silver Medallist Wayne Pinnock said that he prayed for this moment, and words can’t describe his intense elation. Pinnock also added that he is happy that people can see what long jumpers in Jamaica have to offer.

He also outlined, “My daughter has been the biggest blessing in my life, both on and off the track.”

With this victory, the Jamaican made history by winning his country’s first Olympic Long Jump medal since 1996, bringing home the silver.

Not only this, but Pinnock secured this huge milestone on the occasion of Jamaica’s independence on August 6.

While expressing his pride, Prime Minister of Jamaica, Andrew Holness, congratulated the player and said, “Congratulations to Wayne Pinnock on his incredible achievement, securing the Olympic silver medal in the long jump on our Independence Day! You represented Jamaica with excellence and passion. Congratulations and thank you.”

Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett also joined others in congratulating the athlete and said, “From World Championships silver medallist last year to Olympic silver medal winner, this solid jump of 8.36 meters is no small feat! We are very proud of you Wayne! This achievement is a testament to your exceptional talent and hard work, and is a fitting prize as we mark our independence.”

This also marks the fourth Olympic medal for Jamaica which Pinnock secured after six amazing jumps. Other medals which have been secured by the Jamaicans include 2 silver medals and 1 bronze medal.

Kishane Thompson and Shaneika Rickett secured silver in Men’s 100 m and Women’s Triple Jump, respectively, while Rajindra Campbell bagged bronze in Men’s Shot Put.