When it comes to Olympic-caliber track and field, every fraction of every second counts. "It takes a special talent, both physically and mentally, to succeed in a world where your fate is decided in just 10 seconds," World Athletics president Sebastian Coe told Netflix last year. This statement encapsulates the essence of sprinting, where athletes push the boundaries of human speed and endurance.
SPRINT: The World’s Fastest Humans is a docuseries by the team behind Drive to Survive, covering every millisecond of the long journey to the 2023 World Championships. This series promises to delve into the lives of some of the most elite sprinters in the world, offering viewers a behind-the-scenes look at their preparations, challenges, and triumphs.
Among the athletes featured are Jamaica’s own Shericka Jackson, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, and Elaine Thompson, alongside other sprint stars like Noah Lyles (USA), Sha’Carri Richardson (USA), Zharnel Hughes (England), and Lamont Marcell Jacobs (Italy). The series, executive produced by Paul Martin, James Gay-Rees, and Warren Smith at Box to Box Films, in association with the Olympic Channel, is now available on Netflix.
By the second episode, aptly titled "Queens," the focus shifts to Jamaica's rich history and dominance in sprinting, tracing a legacy from Marlene Ottey to the current crop of sprint queens. This episode highlights how Jamaica has become the country to beat, with the United States often being their fiercest competitor. The episode showcases the immense pressure Jamaican athletes face, not just from international competition but also from the high expectations of their own nation, where sprinting is almost a national sport.
In "Queens," the series explores the stories of Sha’Carri Richardson and Shericka Jackson, giving us a glimpse into their 2023 seasons. It touches on Shericka's mental breakdown after failing to advance to the 100m semifinals in the Olympics, a moment many Jamaicans vividly remember. The series captures the intense pressure these athletes face to excel and the determination that drives them to be the best.
The episode also recounts the race where Sha’Carri Richardson beat Shericka Jackson on her birthday—a significant moment for Sha’Carri, proving she could compete at the highest level. Despite this setback, the Jamaican camp remained confident, demonstrating the resilience and sportsmanship that have become hallmarks of Jamaican sprinters. Shericka's reflections on the race, her readiness to face competitors at their best, and the guidance she receives from her coach underscore the mental toughness required in this sport.
The series continues to showcase other fierce competitors, such as Noah Lyles and Zharnel Hughes. In one particularly gripping episode, we see Noah Lyles' dominance as he defeats Zharnel Hughes, who, despite not winning, secures the British title. This rivalry highlights the intensity and high stakes of sprinting at the elite level.
Further episodes focus on the journeys of Jamaican legends Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and Elaine Thompson. Elaine, often hailed as one of the fastest women ever, is lauded for her exceptional talent. Snoop Dogg even called her "the greatest talent of all time as a woman." Meanwhile, Shelly-Ann, known as the "queen of the track," shares her inspiring story of overcoming poverty through track and field, guided by the strong influence of her mother.
A significant part of the series is dedicated to the impact of the MVP Track Club and its coaches, particularly Stephen and Paul Francis. Their training programs have produced an extraordinary number of champions, cementing MVP as one of the most successful track and field groups globally, with over 130 global medals. Stephen Francis is often referred to as a "guru," and Paul Francis describes their coaching strategy as one that "breeds champions."
For Jamaica, sprinting is not just a sport; it's a source of national pride and identity. The stories of these athletes, their dedication, and the high expectations they face resonate deeply with the Jamaican people. As we watch these athletes on their journey to the Paris Olympics, we are reminded of the legacy they are continuing and the new heights they are striving to reach.
Jamaicans should watch SPRINT because it not only celebrates the incredible achievements of our nation's athletes but also provides an intimate look at the dedication, resilience, and passion that define them. The series highlights the rich legacy of Jamaican sprinting, showcasing how our athletes continue to set the global standard. For anyone proud of Jamaica's sporting heritage, this docuseries is a must-see, offering inspiration and a deeper understanding of the immense pride and pressure that comes with representing our flag on the world stage. Let's support our sprint legends and future stars as they strive for greatness!