Osbourne plans to keep Thompson Herah injury free

BUDAPEST, Hungary:

Former MVP coach Shanieke Osbourne hopes to steer double sprint Olympic Games double champion Elaine Thompson Herah to an injury-free conclusion to the season as they continue their temporary partnership.

Osbourne confirmed that she has been working with Thompson Herah since the conclusion of the National Championships in July, where the latter finished fifth and was selected for the 4x100 metres relay pool.

Thompson Herah had a problematic campaign earlier this year, as she struggled with injuries, which included the nagging Achilles problem and a shin splint that saw her start her 100 metres slate only weeks before the championships.

Osbourne said the goal is to use specific exercises to prevent additional complications.

"You have to understand how to deal with injuries. The fact is that after the National Championships, she was advised by the doctor to stay off of the foot for two weeks. So I was waiting on that period," Osbourne said.

"Guided by the doctor, I decided what to do with her based on her injuries. So it is according to what the doctor says. So I had to search in my head for exercises that will help her to improve but will not interfere with the injuries," she continued.

Thompson Herah has struggled to hit the same heights she did in her final season with MVP, where she defended the 100 metres and 200 metres Olympic Games titles at the Tokyo Olympics two years ago. She became the second-fastest woman in 100 metres history at the event but has been coached by her husband Derron since last year.

Osbourne said that Thompson Herah's speed is not in question and believes she will have enough time to round into shape to help Jamaica in the 4x100 metres relays.

"Ever since; I have been working with her, it's enough time. She has a lot of speed, and it is not hard to pull the speed out because she is already fast. It's just to work with her and ensure she doesn't get injured," Osbourne said.

Osbourne said that the decision is up to Thompson Herah about the temporary agreement becoming permanent.