Reigning Olympic 110 metre hurdles champion Hansle Parchment headlines a group of sporting luminaries who were recognized by the Government of Jamaica at the National Honours and Awards Ceremony on Independence Day for their contributions to sport.

Parchment, who is currently representing Jamaica at the Paris Olympics, was conferred with Jamaica’s sixth highest honour – the Order of Distinction in the rank of Commander for his exceptional achievements in the sport of athletics at the world and Olympic levels.

Also receiving the Order of Distinction (Commander Class) was former KSAFA President Ambassador Stewart Stephenson who was highlighted for his contributions to the development of football and the public service.

Other notable recipients of the Order of Distinction in the rank of Officer include national technical director Wendell Downswell for contribution to the development of national football, Fitz Coleman for outstanding contribution to sport in the area of track and field and Paul Francis for service in the field of sport in the area of track and field.

The group is completed by Dr. Paul Wright for services to the field of medicine and the development of the Jamaica Association of Sports Medicine and former Tivoli Gardens head coach Glendon “Admiral” Bailey who was awarded for contribution to the development of Jamaican music.

In total 150 Jamaicans were bestowed with National Awards as Jamaica celebrates its 62nd year of independence.