'I know he can go faster' — Yohan Blake on why namesake Ackeem Blake is the next big thing in Jamaican sprinting

Jamaican sprint legend Yohan Blake, known for his record-breaking speed as the second-fastest man in history over both 100 meters (9.69 seconds) and 200 meters (19.26 seconds), has highlighted the rising talent that he believes could spearhead Jamaica’s resurgence in the sprinting world.

 Blake sees his namesake, as a key figure capable of building on the country’s legacy, particularly following ’s recent successes.

The 34-year-old spoke about Ackeem Blake’s potential, reflecting on the younger sprinter’s remarkable 2024 season.

Powell suffered an injury during the final of the 100 meter race at the London 2012 Olympics, which effectively dropped him from the relay line up.

 Ackeem’s achievements included winning bronze in the 60-meter dash at the World Indoor Championships in Glasgow and securing the prestigious 100-meter Diamond League title in Brussels.

 However, Ackeem’s year was not without challenges; he was unable to advance past the semifinals at the Paris Olympics, marking a rare setback in an otherwise impressive season.

Yohan Blake commended Ackeem’s journey and perseverance, sharing an inspiring story about his determination. 

Yohan Blake has struggled over the last couple of years performance-wise due to a series of injuries that have hampered him, but has explained why he is still not ready to quit the sport.

“I like what I see that is coming up. I have to give Ackeem a lot of credit. He has come from very far. I don’t think he has told his stories as yet. When he reached out to me asking if he could train with us, he used to walk from Stanton to Kingston, run and go back on the same day,” Blake revealed.

Blake emphasized that despite Ackeem’s current accomplishments, his potential is far from fully realized. “To see what he has accomplished, and definitely I know he can go faster, Akeem,” he noted, signaling confidence in Ackeem’s capacity for future achievements.

Reflecting on Jamaica’s overall sprinting talent, Yohan Blake urged the young athletes to maintain focus to unlock their full potential. 

“There is a lot in the pipeline, but they have to stay focused and the sky is the limit,” he advised. He pointed to Kishane Thompson’s Olympic medal as a revitalizing moment for Jamaican sprinting and expressed optimism that others could follow suit.

 “Kishane put us back on the map by getting a medal at the Olympics, and I believe we can get more. Oblique [Seville] has the potential. Definitely Ackeem also has the potential. The crop is there,” Blake concluded.

Yohan Blake’s words underscore the depth of Jamaican sprinting talent and the hope for a new generation to carry forward the country’s storied legacy in track and field.