One of Jamaica’s darlings, Hansle Parchment’s humble and reserved demeanour is what makes him a national treasure.

Parchment is a St Thomas native who attended the Morant Bay High School where his athletics journey started.

He became a member of the school’s track and field team in second form, and let’s just say a star was born.

Over the years, Parchment has been doing well in his athletic career, despite a few setbacks, but the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics – that takes the cake.

When the 110m hurdles final was about to begin in Tokyo, the Jamaican was not on the lips of most people.

All fingers pointed to the American, Grant Holloway, who was 2019 world champion and indoor 60m world record holder.

But a mere 13.05 seconds later, Jamaica had the win, courtesy of Parchment.

He won the race with a historic run and claimed is first Olympic gold medal.

All his hard work had paid off.

In 2021 he walked away with Jamaica’s Sportsman of the Year award.

A multiple Olympic medalist and current 110m Hurdles Olympic champion, Parchment continues to make Jamaica proud.

Here are five things you may not have known about Hansel Parchment:

1. He almost left Jamaica…

After high school, the 110m hurdler had no intention of staying in Jamaica since he had plans to sit the SAT and pursue his academics and track abroad. But, as luck would have it, he was awarded a full scholarship to the University of the West Indies, and he decided to stay…#bestchoiceever!

 2. Any Gemini in the house?

Kind and versatile are the traits of a Gemini. Born on the 17th of June 1990, Parchment is a true Gemini.

3. Track start vs super model

Lights, camera, action! In 2015, the track star switched things up a bit and took to the runway. His versatility saw him walking the runway at Caribbean Fashion Week (CFW) that year.

4.  Mr. Ambitious

The 32-year-old isn’t just about the track. He studied Psychology at the University of the West Indies (Mona) and graduated in 2017.

No wonder he was able to analyse Holloway before the final in Tokyo. After all, the Jamaican is an expert in Psychology.

5. Hansle the juggler?

With his victory at Tokyo 2020, Parchment became the oldest-ever winner of the Olympic 110m hurdles title. 

His achievement at 31 years old came a full nine years after his first Olympic medal – a bronze from London 2012.

But there is no slowing down for Parchment as his eyes are set on Paris 2024.