March 18th 2024.
When you think of retired Olympic track and field champion Sanya Richards-Ross, you may immediately think of her as a fierce competitor for Team USA. But did you know that her roots actually lie in Jamaica, her native country? This has been a point of contention for some, as she chose to represent the United States, a direct rival in the track and field world. However, at 39 years old, Richards-Ross has finally shed some light on why she made such a pivotal decision.
It all started when she moved from her hometown of Kingston, Jamaica to Florida at the young age of 12. She had been running since she was just seven years old, representing her school in annual youth championships. But her family saw an opportunity for her to expand her horizons and potentially earn a scholarship at an American university. Of course, Richards-Ross was hesitant to leave her home, but she eventually adapted to the American culture and made friends with her new teammates.
At 16 years old, she was invited to compete for the U.S. junior team at the Junior nationals. However, there was one catch - she needed a U.S. passport. This was a moment that made Richards-Ross truly consider her decision to represent the United States. But with the support of her family, she expedited the process of becoming an American citizen and joined Team USA.
Reflecting on this decision, she admits that she didn't fully realize the impact it would have on her identity and loyalty. But the opportunities that came with being an American citizen and running for Team USA were too great to pass up. She became a dominant force in the 400m world rankings, setting an American record and earning the IAAF Female World Athlete of the Year accolade twice.
But despite her success and her allegiance to Team USA, Richards-Ross has not forgotten her Jamaican roots. In 2023, she brought her family back to Jamaica to celebrate her son's sixth birthday. And in 2022, she even brought her Real Housewives of Atlanta castmates to Jamaica for a three-episode vacation, where they stayed at a luxurious five-star hotel, visited the National Stadium, and explored the island.
She also makes sure to give back to her community in Jamaica, visiting her alma mater, Vaz Preparatory, to speak to the students and make a generous donation. Richards-Ross may have chosen to represent the United States on the track, but she has not abandoned her Jamaican roots and is proud of her heritage.
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