Jamaican discus thrower Traves Smikle is brimming with confidence following a decisive victory at the Jamaica Athletics Invitational, held in Kingston on May 11, 2024. Now, he is gearing up for the upcoming Diamond League meeting in Rabat, Morocco, where he will compete against a field of world-class throwers.
Smikle, who is set to leave the island on May 15 for the prestigious Diamond League event scheduled for May 19, expressed both excitement and determination about his debut in the series. “Encountering a discus field like the one in Rabat for my first Diamond League meet is pretty exciting and crazy at the same time,” Smikle told Sportmax. “Not many of the big names are missing, and I just need to go out there and compete. It’s a game of distance, and these guys are quality throwers, so I just need to hold my own and compete.”
His recent performance at the Jamaica Athletics Invitational showcased Smikle’s prowess, as he achieved a remarkable throw of 66.89 meters, securing victory over his compatriot Fedrick Dacres. Reflecting on this achievement, Smikle emphasized the importance of consistency and the need to replicate his current form in European competitions.
“Before coming into this competition, I felt a little tired during the training sessions in the days before,” Smikle noted after his win on Saturday. “Coming out today and having another 66-meter throw is pretty respectable. I am working on my consistency; what I need to do now is when I go to Europe, I translate this sort of performance and better to be competitive among the field.”
Looking ahead to the Olympics in Paris this summer, Smikle is focused on pushing his limits and achieving greater distances. “I want to get 68, 69, 70 meters in a stadium,” he explained. “That is what I am working on.”
When asked about the steps needed to reach these targets, Smikle highlighted the importance of dedication, patience, and consistency in training. “It’s going to take more work, patience, and greater consistency,” emphasized Smikle, who has recorded impressive throws of 67.57 meters, 67.83 meters, 65.96 meters, 66.03 meters, and 66.89 meters so far this season. “If you can build up your level of consistency, then at some point your upper limit must get higher.”
As Smikle prepares for the Diamond League in Rabat, his eyes are firmly set on maintaining his winning streak and improving his performance on the international stage.
