Brigitte Foster-Hylton's victory in the 100m hurdles at the 2009 World Championships in Athletics was yet another proud moment for Jamaicans. Although her talent was not disputed, few people saw her as a pre-race favorite.

          Having won silver and bronze medals at previous World Championships, a gold medal at a global championship (she won gold at the 2006 Commonwealth Games) was the only thing missing from her resume. The elusive goal of winning that gold medal almost seemed like a lost cause as Brigitte Foster-Hylton decided to retire from track & field in 2008. She had suffered many career setbacks caused by various injuries, the type of ordeal that has forced many athletes into retirement.

       Fortunately, her coach Stephen Francis convinced her not to retire. What a good decision that was! Foster-Hylton became the first Jamaican woman to win a 100m hurdles gold medal at a global championship. One should also note that she accomplished this feat at the age of 34 (turning 35 this year), an age at which most elite sprinters have either retired or stopped delivering noteworthy performances. Congratulations Mrs Foster-Hylton! You have reinforced the notion that age is nothing but a number and that perseverance pays.