Alana Reid Leaves Star Athletics to Join Hurdle Mechanics at University of Arkansas
Jamaican sprint prodigy Alana Reid has reportedly parted ways with Star Athletics Track Club, where she trained under the guidance of Dennis Mitchell, the coach of American sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson. The 19-year-old has instead opted to join the Hurdle Mechanics training group, based at the University of Arkansas, a move that aligns her with some of the most talented athletes in the sport.
Reid’s decision marks a significant change in her young career. She initially made headlines in October 2023 when she chose to work with the Florida-based Star Athletics team under Mitchell, a highly respected coach in track and field. During her year with Mitchell, Reid achieved remarkable milestones. She claimed gold in both the 100m and 4x100m relay at the World U20 Championships in Lima, Peru, showcasing her potential as one of the sport’s rising stars. Additionally, she clocked a season-best time of 11.06 seconds in the 100m, cementing her status as one of Jamaica’s most promising sprinters.
Reid also had the opportunity to compete on the global stage at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where she was part of Jamaica’s 4x100m relay team. The squad delivered a commendable performance, finishing fifth overall in a highly competitive field. These experiences have undoubtedly shaped Reid’s development as she transitions into the next phase of her career.
Reports suggest that Reid’s move to Hurdle Mechanics is driven by the chance to train alongside an elite group of athletes at the University of Arkansas. The group boasts several high-profile names, including Paris Olympics medallists Alexis Holmes, Amber Anning, and Anna Cockrell. Additionally, Reid will join forces with fellow Jamaican sprinters Ackera Nugent and Nickisha Pryce, further enhancing the group’s depth and expertise.
This new environment offers Reid an opportunity to benefit from advanced training techniques and collaborate with a team of world-class athletes who have already achieved success on the international stage. For Reid, the move could be pivotal in her quest to elevate her performances and establish herself as a senior-level contender in global sprinting competitions.
Reid’s decision to switch training groups highlights her determination to maximize her potential and find the best possible support system to achieve her goals. While Star Athletics provided a strong foundation, her transition to Hurdle Mechanics reflects a desire to challenge herself in a new setting and build on her already impressive résumé.
As she embarks on this new chapter, Reid’s progress will undoubtedly be closely watched by fans and experts alike. With her talent, discipline, and access to elite resources at the University of Arkansas, she is well-positioned to make significant strides in her career. Whether competing individually or as part of a relay team, Alana Reid’s journey promises to be one of the most exciting narratives in Jamaican athletics in the coming years.
