Alia Atkinson Celebrates Two Medals At World Championships (SW Radio)

Jul 18, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Alia Atkinson of Jamaica competes in the women's swimming 200m individual medley during the 2015 Pan Am Games at Pan Am Aquatics UTS Centre and Field House. Mandatory Credit: Rob Schumacher-USA TODAY Sports

Photo Courtesy: Rob Schumacher/USA Today Sports Images

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It’s still an uphill battle for Alia Atkinson to get her performances in the pool noticed in her native Jamaica, especially with the superstars of track and field getting ready for their world championships at the same time. But her two medals in Russia at the long course worlds – a first for the Caribbean nation – is a big start in the right direction.

“Hopefully they’re getting excited (back home),” she said. “More swimmers are trying to come out for next year, and we’ll see if we have a bigger team for the Olympics.”

Listen To Interview On Swimming World Radio

Atkinson was able to win a bronze in the 100 breast and earned silver in the 50 breast in Russia, ending a long season in the spotlight that began in December when she won the short course world title in the 100 breast and became the first black female world swimming champion. She said earlier in the year that the pressure of proving herself in long course was a bit overwhelming, but once she got to the meet and began to show major gains, the pressure was off.

“Last worlds, I got ninth in both events, so to come back and medal in both is really showing that I’m improving throughout the years,” she said. “It’s fantastic!”

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Virginia Turner

8 years ago

Yes we are excited for you and proud ogf your progress Jamaica’sSwim Queen

Karl Laddy Smith

8 years ago

MaNiecey, it is sooo wonderful watching your persistent hard work pay off. I’m also happy that you truly enjoy doing what you do, a testament to anyone who enters into your zip code. Nothing but admiration here. I wish you continued success and improvement as you fine-tune your craft for Olympic glory.

Fi wi Love have Lion-Heart…