McMaster takes second place at the Jamaica Invitational

McMaster is competing in the recently held Jamaica Invitational. (Photo credit: loop)

Kyron McMaster has achieved a commendable second-place finish at the Jamaica Athletics Invitational, marking his own first race in the 400 meter hurdles of the season at Kingston’s National Stadium on Saturday, May 11.

The Commonwealth Games champion and World Championship silver medalist, who was favorite before the race, clocked a time of 49.00 seconds. However, the spotlight had been stolen by Jamaican Malik James-King, who won with a personal best of 48.39 seconds. Adding to the intense competition, Jamaica’s Jaheel Hyde, the reigning Pan American Games champion, completed the podium finishes in 49.48 seconds.

McMaster’s return to the Jamaica Athletics Invitational brought back memories of his performance in 2017, when he posted a world-leading time of 47.80 seconds. At the time, he surpassed notable competitors such as Hyde and American Bershawn Jackson, demonstrating his dominance on the track.

This year, despite a relaxed approach to his race, McMaster’s performance in the closing stages was not enough to secure first place. The Virgin Islands native, who has already qualified for the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games, reflected on the unique atmosphere of competing in Jamaica.

“I think every athlete should run in Jamaica at least once in their career,” said McMaster. He praised the vibrant local athletics culture and highlighted the ISSA-GraceKennedy Boys and Girls Athletics Championships as a culmination of community involvement in the sport.

With the Paris Olympics on the horizon, McMaster views the Jamaica Athletics Invitational as a crucial step in his preparation, with his focus on performing well and maintaining his mental stability in high-pressure situations..