Veronica Campbell-Brown: Why twice denying Allyson Felix Olympic gold became a career highlight

Veronica Campbell Brown (L) is embraced by Allyson Felix after beating her in the 2008 Olympic final.

Veronica Campbell-Brown: Why twice denying Allyson Felix Olympic gold became a career highlight

Mark Kinyanjui 21:30 - 07.03.2025

Veronica Campbell-Brown has explained how twice obliterating Allyson Felix in back-to-back Olympic games in the 200 meters was the highlight of her career.

Jamaican sprint legend Veronica Campbell-Brown etched her name in history by becoming one of only three women to win consecutive Olympic gold medals in the 200m. 

Her victories in Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008 stand as defining moments in her illustrious career, particularly because they came against fierce competition, including American sprint star Allyson Felix.

Reflecting on her achievements on the Ready Set Go podcast, Campbell-Brown described the 2008 Beijing Olympics as her most memorable victory, citing the challenges she overcame to defend her title. 

“In 2008, I did not make the cut in the 100m—I finished fourth,” she recalled. “For the first time in my career, I was heading to a championship having won just one individual race, but then I realized that it was for my good because in Beijing, I ran my fastest 200m sprint ever of 21.74 and defended my title.”

The disappointment of missing out on the 100m Jamaican team during trials turned out to be a blessing in disguise. 

Without the grueling 100m rounds, Campbell-Brown entered the 200m competition fresh and energetic, ultimately delivering a stunning performance to claim gold. Her victory in Beijing not only solidified her legacy but also showcased her mental resilience and ability to rise above setbacks.

Campbell-Brown’s journey to Olympic glory began in Athens 2004, where she became the first Caribbean woman to win an Olympic sprint title.

 Her triumph in the 200m, coupled with a bronze in the 100m and gold in the 4x100m relay, made her the most successful Caribbean athlete at a single Olympic Games at the time.

 “As a young girl, I dreamt of winning an Olympic gold medal,” she said. “When I experienced it, got on the podium, and heard the national anthem, I was overcome with tears.

“So many people in the country were crying as well because they were excited for me.”

In both Athens and Beijing, Campbell-Brown faced off against Allyson Felix, a formidable rival and one of the most decorated athletes in track and field history. 

Despite Felix’s prowess, Campbell-Brown’s dominance in the 200m finals was undeniable, with her victories cementing her status as one of the greatest sprinters of all time.

Looking back, Campbell-Brown credits her success to her unwavering determination and the lessons learned from adversity. 

“Not having the 100m rounds was a blessing for me because I was energetic and fresh,” she noted. Her ability to channel disappointment into motivation serves as an inspiration to athletes worldwide.

Veronica Campbell-Brown’s back-to-back Olympic victories remain a testament to her exceptional talent, mental fortitude, and enduring legacy in the world of athletics. 

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