Watson’s sub-45 an ominous sign

When quarter-miler Antonio Watson became the country's second world champion in the men's 400 metres three years ago in Budapest, many thought he would go on to dominate the event. Watson, who was also world under-18 champion in 2017 in Nairobi, saw his progress stalled by injuries in the years that followed.

On Sunday at the JAAA/Puma National Junior and Senior Championships, the former Petersfield High School athlete showed that he is getting back to full fitness by capturing his first senior national title after winning the event in a season's best 44.73 seconds.

Watson was very excited to be back in good shape and was happy to win his first senior national title.

"I am feeling good, and I have been working really hard. I am very pleased because over the past two years, I did not compete in the finals due to injury, and I feel proud of myself," he said.

According to Watson, it was all about patience.

"It was all about patience for me to get over my injury concerns as I sat down with my therapist and my coach to work out the best way forward and how to fix my injury, and it worked out well in the end," he shared.

He is expecting great things at the Commonwealth Games.

"When you put on the Jamaica gear, I always try to do my best and expect great performances," he said.

According to Watson, there was never any doubt about getting back to the top.

"I have always been a positive person, and I came into the season wanting to do better than the previous year, and this really motivated me. The objective was just to stay focused."

Asked if there was any pressure on him after not performing at his best since winning his world title, Watson admitted there was.

"Yes, there was some pressure, but I am always positive, and I blocked out the negativity and used that as motivation going forward, and it has helped," he continued.

With several top athletes in the world running sub-44 and low.44-second times, he was asked if he could get into that range.

"The objective is to run 43 seconds, and I know it will come either now or sometime in the future, and I am keeping the faith," he said.

Watson also expressed gratitude to those who have supported him throughout his journey.

"There are many people who have supported me and have always encouraged me in good and bad times, and I want to thank them for their support as I want to continue to make them proud," he concluded.