Jamaican sprint star announces pregnancy

Campbell-Brown, 36, today announced to the world via social media that both herself and husband Omar Brown are looking forward to becoming parents. “We look forward to parenthood and all the joys and challenges that come with it,” she wrote along with images with her life-long partner from high school. “We pray for strength and wisdom to be the best parents possible.”

Campbell-Brown, winner of 43 major titles from junior through to the senior level, dating back to 1996, says she’s unsure of returning to the track after giving birth.

“At this moment,” she added, “I am uncertain if I will return to competition, as the main focus is to welcome our baby, and to provide the best environment filled with love, warmth, and care.”

Fans reacting to the news were very elated for the athlete who won gold in the 100m and 200m finals at the 2007 and 2011 World Athletics Championships respectively.

Francine T. Bernard in response wrote: “Congrats to the both of you. You have represented Jamaica to the fullest. Even if you don't return to compete, you already did us proud. Concentrate on your family.”
Karen Outar said: “Congratulations. You did your best for our country now it’s time to what’s best for you and family. We love you.”

Delighted and expressing appreciation Rusheen Hornsby scribes “Congratulations to you and yours all the best in your future endeavors...you flew Jamaica flag high and still is your foot prints already stained those tracks with grace.”

Tamara Slimmaz added: “Congratulation just yesterday I was saying it's your time to have a baby. Congrats.” The former Vere Technical High School star athlete now joins a special list of athletes and other sporting figures to become a mother in recent times.

Fellow countrywomen Sherone Simpson, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, and Americans Allyson Felix and tennis star Serena Williams have all taken a break to become mothers in recent times. And with the exception of Felix for now, all have returned to competitive action.