Following her impressive win in the flat 400 meters at the Grand Slam Track event in Kingston, Olympic champion Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone took a moment to reflect not just on her performance, but on the warm embrace she received from the people of Jamaica — and how the vibrant local culture, especially the cuisine, played an unexpected role in her success.
McLaughlin-Levrone, who clocked a commanding 50.32 seconds in windy conditions to win her Slam group, was full of praise for the atmosphere surrounding the meet. From the moment she landed on the island, she said she felt a deep sense of connection with the people, the culture, and the flavorful food that Jamaica is known for around the world.
A Welcoming Experience
Speaking with reporters after her race, McLaughlin-Levrone expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Jamaican public for their hospitality.
“From the moment I arrived, the people here have made me feel like family,” she said. “Everyone’s been so welcoming, so kind — it’s really humbling. That kind of energy just lifts you up before a race.”
She noted that being in a positive and vibrant environment helped her focus and stay relaxed going into competition. For an elite athlete constantly juggling high expectations and intense scrutiny, such an atmosphere can make all the difference.
Fueling Up the Island Way
McLaughlin-Levrone didn’t shy away from highlighting one of the more flavorful aspects of her Jamaican experience: the food. Known for her disciplined lifestyle and clean eating habits, she admitted that she couldn’t resist trying local staples — and was glad she did.
“I had some of the most amazing meals here,” she smiled. “From jerk chicken to callaloo, ackee and saltfish — everything was just delicious and full of flavor. Honestly, I think it gave me the perfect boost. I felt energized and fueled in a whole different way.”
She joked that the balance of spice, freshness, and nutrition found in Jamaican food was “better than any pre-race meal I’ve had in a while.” The local cuisine, she said, made her feel at home, even thousands of miles away from her own.
Culture as Motivation
More than just the meals, McLaughlin-Levrone said the cultural pride and energy of the Jamaican people helped push her through the finish line. Known for producing legends like Usain Bolt and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Jamaica’s deep love for track and field added weight and honor to her performance.
“Running in a place that’s so passionate about the sport — it brings something out of you,” she said. “The history here, the support, the fans — even though the stands weren’t as full as expected, the energy was still real. And I carried that with me during the race.”
Looking Ahead with Gratitude
As she now prepares for the next leg of the Grand Slam Track series in Miami, McLaughlin-Levrone says she’s taking more than just a win with her. She’s leaving Kingston inspired, recharged, and with a new appreciation for a country that welcomed her with open arms and full plates.
“I’ll always remember this trip,” she said. “Jamaica — your people, your food, your culture — played a part in this victory. And I’m so thankful.”
It’s clear that McLaughlin-Levrone’s journey isn’t just about medals and times; it’s also about the connections and experiences she gathers along the way.