Fatherhood brings new life to Smikle

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July 14, 2023

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Reckless Control’s Traves Smikle is about to throw the men’s discus to 66.12 metres for victory at the National Senior and Junior Championships at the National Stadium on Saturday.

National discus champion Traves Smikle has credited the added motivation that fatherhood has given him as he sets sights towards a strong showing at the World Championships, after winning what he called the best national discus competition he has ever competed in.

Smikle took his fifth national title in 66.12 metres, with Roja Stona in second place with 65.92, and 2019 World Championships silver medallist Fedrick Dacres third in 65.79. All three men have thrown 68 metres this year, well over the World Championships qualifying standard.

For Smikle, he has seen changes in his life in the last eight months, welcoming a new baby into the world. Balancing preparations with the demands of being a parent, he says it has given him added motivation in a season in which he soared into the top 10 in the world.

"Fatherhood is not easy, and my family has done an incredible job - myself and my lady. When I go out on the field, I am always motivated, but I have my little one now in the picture, I am even more motivated," Smikle said. "Life happens in different circumstances, but once you have the motivation I don't think anything can stop you."

Smikle is currently ranked No. 9 in the world, thanks to his personal-best effort of 68.14 metres in February. With Stona and Dacres ranked No. 6 and No. 7, respectively, he believes they can be in the medal picture next month in Budapest.

"(We can do it) for the very reason that we have the quality. The discus world is crazy right now, with three guys throwing over 71. You have a lot of guys throwing 68 and 69 on any given day," Smikle said. "We now have to put ourselves in a position to contend with those guys, and I believe we can. It's all about planning. It is all about being confident and conquering the mind."

Smikle also believes that the strength of the National Championships field bodes well for the future of the discipline in Jamaica.

"It says that we are in good shape and confident that we can go out there and do great things," Smikle said.