The Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) has approved the renaming of Ashoka Road in Waterhouse to Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce Drive.

During Tuesday’s (October 8) meeting of the KSAMC at the Marcus Garvey Council Chamber, 24 Church Street, downtown Kingston Councillor for the Waterhouse Division Byron Clarke moved the resolution and said the Jamaican athlete is “more than deserving of this honour”, noting that it will serve as an inspiration for future generations.

The honour is an acknowledgement of Fraser-Pryce’s stellar achievements in track and field, and her unwavering dedication and contribution to the Waterhouse community and the wider Jamaica. A 10-time World Champion and eight-time Olympic medallist, Fraser-Pryce was born and raised on Ashoka Road.

She is the only sprinter, male or female, to win five world titles in the 100-metre (2009, 2013, 2015, 2019 and 2022). As such, Councillor Clarke hailed the star athlete as an excellent role model and example of hope and positivity.

Aside from her exploits in track and field. Fraser-Pryce has greatly impacted the lives of many young athletes through her Pocket Rocket Foundation, providing assistance through scholarships and grants. 

“As the local representative for the division, I recognise and memoralise Mrs. Fraser-Pryce for her determination, commitment, resilience, patriotic favour and willingness to serve her country and community. She embraces life with a passion of purpose through hard work, philosophy and an unwavering spirit,” Councillor Clarke said.

“Her greatness and worthiness for this recognition cannot be defined solely on the basis of her accomplishment on the track; her true value transcends athleticism,” he added.

Mayor of Kingston Councillor Andrew Swaby, said that plans are under way to celebrate the athlete’s work and legacy. He informed that discussions in this regard have commenced with the Civic Committee; the Principal of her alma mater, Wolmers’ High School for Girls; members of the Pocket Rocket Foundation and others.