To the Jamaican Track and Field Fraternity, Thirty-One-year-old Hansle Parchment is a human medal of distinguished resilience and consistent determination. As the first Jamaican to win an Olympic Medal in the 110m hurdles, (when he won bronze at the London Games in 2012), Hansle has made his family, friends, community, and country proud.
Parchment developed a passion for track as a second former while attending Morant Bay High School in St. Thomas. He was first introduced to Jamaicans while attending 6th form at Kingston College when he appeared at the national Boys & Girls Championships.
Plagued by Injuries
Throughout his professional career, Parchment has had several injuries. Nonetheless, he has proven that he has what it takes to secure a gold medal at this year’s Olympic Games, in Tokyo, Japan.
In 2013, he injured his ankle in a warm-up session, which later proved to be a severe setback. Later that year, he finished thirteenth at the World Championships due to the same injury. Nonetheless, the 110m hurdler returned with a fiery zeal, to break the Jamaica national record in 2014 and to take second place in the 2015 World Championships, held in Beijing, China. By 2016, injury struck again, and Parchment was unable to compete at the Olympics in Rio. But he persevered again to place second at the Commonwealth Games, held in Gold Coast, Australia, and first in the NACAC Championships, held in Toronto, Canada. His record has shown tremendous dedication to achieving his goal and leaving a legacy of value.
Then… Disappointment Struck, But Hansle was NOT Defeated
Parchment was not spared the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to the canceling of the 2020 Olympics, the 110m hurdle medalist had to hold on to his spikes a little longer before he could get a chance to secure an Olympic gold. While the cancellation was disappointing, Parchment remained focused on an opportunity to compete at the 2021 Olympics.
Parchment said that … he is pushing to get the gold medal to leave a legacy behind. “I would like to be known as one of the best in the 110m hurdles event,” he said. (Jamaica Gleaner, January 2021).
Hansle Parchment has progressed amidst setbacks and disappointments. He credits his drive and inspiration to family, coach, and his inner motivation. “I have various sources of inspiration – my family, coach, and my own desire to achieve my goals,” he disclosed. (Jamaica Observer June 2021).
Hansle Parchment is at the top of his game, and Jamaicans look forward to a GOLDEN performance!
Which Jamaican athlete do you think will perform at the top of their game at the Olympics 2020? Share with us; we would love to hear from you!
