Indian Women’s 400m and hurdles Coach Jerry Lee Holness exudes confidence in shaping a new generation of athletes for sustainable success.
Holness, a seasoned coach who has mentored Olympic and World champions like Elaine Thompson-Herah and Nesta Carter, emphasizes the importance of long-term athlete development.
“We have to look out for the new generation. It’s a four-year cycle. We are looking to incorporate quite a few U-19, U-20 kids and work with them on a two, three, or four-year plan to develop their potential. Athletics is all about the cycle, but we must blend the old with the new,” Holness explains as qouted by Sportsmax.
Despite cricket and hockey dominating India’s sporting landscape, track and field athletes face immense pressure to deliver instant results.
Holness identifies this as a critical challenge and aims to reshape the mindset surrounding athletics.
“One problem in India is that athletes are pressured every time they step on the track. People expect them to run personal bests even in their first outing of the season. I’m trying to change that culture,” he said.
Beyond physical conditioning, Holness is keen on strengthening the psychological resilience of his athletes.
“It’s about education—helping athletes understand the mental and psychological aspects of the sport. I’m combining physical training with mental conditioning, and hopefully, we’ll see strong results,” he noted.
The Indian women’s relay team’s next major test will be the World Athletics Relays in Guangzhou, China, on May 10-11.
Holness remains optimistic about their chances.
“We have a good opportunity to reach the finals.”