Ray Stewart (sprinter)

Early Life

Raymond Douglas Stewart was born in Kingston, Jamaica, on March 18, 1965. He began his athletic career as a junior athlete, showcasing exceptional talent in sprinting. Stewart quickly became known at the CARIFTA Games, where he won five gold medals over a four-year period, establishing himself as one of Jamaica's top young athletes. His early success laid the foundation for his future achievements in track and field. Stewart's dedication to the sport and his relentless training helped him develop the speed and technique necessary to compete on the world stage. His early experiences shaped his competitive spirit and passion for sprinting, propelling him toward a successful career.

Career

Ray Stewart's professional career took off in the early 1980s when he began competing at international levels. He made his Olympic debut at the 1984 Los Angeles Games, where he reached the final of the 100 meters and won a silver medal as part of the Jamaican 4x100 meters relay team. In 1987, Stewart continued to excel, earning a silver medal in the 100 meters and a bronze medal with the Jamaican relay team at the World Championships in Rome. However, his career faced a setback during the 1988 Seoul Olympics when a leg injury in the 100 m final derailed his chances for medals in both the individual and relay events. Despite this, Stewart rebounded impressively, recording a personal best of 9.97 seconds at the NCAA Outdoor Championships in 1989, making him the first Jamaican to officially break the 10-second barrier. He also achieved the third fastest relay time ever at this competition. In 1990, he won a bronze medal in the 4x100 meters relay at the Commonwealth Games. Stewart's career reached another peak at the 1991 World Championships, where he set a national record of 9.96 seconds in the 100 meters, although he finished sixth due to fierce competition.

Achievements

Ray Stewart's athletic achievements include multiple medals at prestigious international competitions. He won a silver medal in the 4x100 meters relay at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. At the 1987 World Championships, he secured silver in the 100 meters and bronze in the relay. Stewart's personal best of 9.97 seconds at the NCAA Outdoor Championships in 1989 made him the top-ranked 100 m athlete that year. His national record of 9.96 seconds at the 1991 World Championships was notable, despite only earning him sixth place in a race where two continental records and the world record were established. Stewart also competed in three consecutive Olympic 100 m finals, showcasing his consistency at the highest level of competition.

Legacy

Ray Stewart's legacy in the sport of sprinting is marked by his groundbreaking achievements and contributions to Jamaican athletics. He was the first Jamaican to officially break the 10-second barrier in the 100 meters, inspiring future generations of sprinters from Jamaica. His success at the CARIFTA Games and international competitions helped elevate Jamaica's profile in track and field. Stewart's determination and resilience, especially after recovering from injury, serve as a reflection of his character and commitment to the sport. He remains a celebrated figure in Jamaican athletics, remembered for his speed, competitive spirit, and significant role in the development of sprinting in Jamaica.

Notable Quotes

Did You Know?

• Ray Stewart was the first Jamaican sprinter to break the 10-second barrier in the 100 meters.
• He won five gold medals at the CARIFTA Games during his junior career.
• Stewart's personal best of 9.97 seconds was recorded at the NCAA Outdoor Championships in 1989.