Coach Michael Frater says increased maturity has been a key factor behind the recent progress of his athlete Ackeem Blake as the sprinter prepares for what will be a very hectic season.
Frater said Blake’s improved approach to training and competition has already begun to show in his performances, stating that while there is still room for growth, the signs are encouraging.
“I think his progress is definitely coming from being a bit more mature this year, still not where we want him to be but he is getting more mature now and he is taking his training a lot more seriously,” said Frater. “We all know that he is a very good athlete but what people don’t realise is that some people take more time to be mature than others.”
Blake is currently the joint second-fastest Jamaican this season over 60 metres, alongside Odaine McPherson, with a time of 6.53 seconds. Kishane Thompson leads the national rankings with 6.52. Blake is also the national record holder in the men’s 60m, having clocked 6.42.
The sprinter won a bronze medal in 2024 but did not compete at last year’s staging of the event. According to Frater, the World Indoor Championships were not initially part of the season’s main objectives.
“To be honest, the World Indoors wasn’t a priority because our main goals are always outdoors but I realise that he is a bit more ahead in training so we decided to just do a few indoor races which he did particularly well,” said Frater.
“Seeing what he has done so far and if given the chance to compete at the World Indoors then we will take a shot at it,” he said.
Blake, 24, owns personal best times of 9.88 in the 100 metres and 20.20 in the 200m, credentials that Frater believes underline his potential as he continues to mature.
ANTICIPATING A GOOD SEASON
“It is about time now for Ackeem because he is 24 now but it comes with growth and maturity and he has been a lot more serious this year and if he can carry that momentum right through the season, I think he will have a very good season,” he stated.
Looking ahead, Frater underscored that they have not yet finalised plans regarding the Commonwealth Games, with a packed schedule ahead this year.
“We haven’t really decided on the Commonwealth Games yet because we have quite a few meets this year. Some people are taking it as an off year, but we are definitely not, every year is another year to build,” he noted.
“You have World Indoor, the Commonwealth Games and the Ultimate Championships which we would like to be a part of this year and then you have the Diamond League finals so we are taking it step by step right now.”
Frater pointed out that once Blake remains healthy this season then he is confident that he will do well.
“At the second Grand Slam Track meet, he picked up an injury in the 200m which set us back for about a month and a half, but once he stays healthy then he should be fine this year,” said Frater.
