Wilson qualifies for Olympic triathlon

Article by Sherrylyn Toppin

BARBADOS WILL HAVE its first ever triathlete in the Rio Olympic Games this year.

Over the weekend, 25-year-old Jason Wilson got one of the coveted berths after competing in Yokohama, Japan where he placed 37th. His time was 1 hour 49.16 minutes.

Wilson, who also represented Barbados at the Carifta Games, jumped six places in the world and is now ranked 49th.

He is the first person from the Caribbean to qualify for an Olympic triathlon.

Fellow triathlete Matthew Wright, who was also hoping to qualify but has been battling a foot injury this season, was overjoyed for his friend in a post on Instagram.

“This guy right here. An injury plagued 2014 to (arguably) his best season in 2015 and an extremely stressful and frustrating start to 2016. The craziest 2 year qualifying period, but you kept your eyes firmly on the prize, and the end goal is now a reality. Mans qualified for the Olympics, YUH MAD MAAAAAN!!!! Ist ever Bajan and person from the English speaking Caribbean to qualify in triathlon. Hardest working man I know, you inspire me everyday ma brotha!” (SAT)