By: Crisan Evans

It is often said that after birth, a woman is less likely to continue her career or venture into one. Shelly-Ann Fraser Pryce has, however, proved this statement wrong. The sprinter who gave birth two years ago to her son Zyon participated in the IAAF World Championships. She returned home with a world-leading 10.71 seconds record cementing her title as the world’s fastest woman.  She also added to this success a gold win in the 4 x 100 m for the Jamaican team – another “top-of-the-podium” finish.

In addition to winning her eighth title, the sprinter is also the oldest mother to have ever won a world or Olympic 100 m title.

The sprinter explained that being a pregnant athlete was very difficult for her as she had to deal with critics. She said although she knew everyone was entitled to their opinions she was still hurt by the many criticisms she received.

“I knew how I felt and I knew I wasn’t ready to go. I had something left to do, and I stayed focused on the goal,” said Fraser.

The sprinter is now focused on achieving additional greatness in the coming year.

“It’s been a long two years, but to be able to do what I did is definitely something that has given me a lot of confidence going forward and I [will continue] to work hard. I’m still having my eyes set on 2020,” reported Pryce to the Gleaner.