The Sunday Gleaner dated 24th August 2008, carried an article entitled: “Frater’s Father Upset”. In the article Lynden Frater, father of Olympian Michael Frater, expressed his displeasure at the lack of recognition for his son’s exploits over the years. He is quoted as saying: “…Jamaica at large has not really recognized what he (Michael) has done for the country.” He also referred to an occasion where Michael reportedly had to use Asafa Powell’s pass to get into the stadium at the IAAF World Championships in Osaka, Japan last year. If this is so Jamaicans deserve an explanation from the JAAA.
The Jamaica Amateur Athletic Association should take care of the athletes in the best possible way. In addition, the government and private sector should support them not just when they are wining, but always. As it regards recognition from the wider Jamaica, I am not sure what he is asking for. People will always have their favorite and always love and gravitate towards a winner. This is not to suggest that Michael is not a winner in his own right, but there will be “greater and lesser” men among us.
3 comments:
I'll agree with you to the extent that all the stakeholders should take care of our athletes. Primarily because as ambassadors they take care of our country. However, I don't think Mr. Frater (the father) was referring to the wider Jamaica. It cannot be a nice feeling knowing that your son is living in another man's shadow.
Well argued. You are quite right we cannot all be equal among men albeit that we strive for equality. But, when it comes to a body set to safeguard the well-being of its athletes they should all be treated equally.
The article was written in 2008. I would have liked to see the follow - up article as well, if there was one. Your comment is valid but the post could have been more balanced.
How can the father expect the same praise for frater as one would give to say bolt. As you say people gravitate to a winner but, give him his dues he has made us proud and that business about him being unable to get into the stadium thats just sloppy and should not happen in futire.
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