After handing out awards, Tahesia Harrigan celebrates with Victor Ludorum Alliston Blyden and Britney Wattley. Photo>Dean "The Sportsman" Greenaway

TORTOLA—Despite a busy five days at home where she was honored for winning the territory’s first medal at the IAAF World Championships level, Tahesia Harrigan found time to complete a training session as she prepares to make her outdoor debut at the Hampton Games in Trinidad on May 17.          

Harrigan who departed on Sunday, described her trip as ‘fascinating.’ “It was fun and exhausting at the same time, but it felt good to be recognized by so many people in the country,” she said, noting there are lots of expectations. “People are looking up to you, they are expecting a lot from you and I’m expecting a lot from myself. All I know is that I’m being supported 100% and hopefully, they’ll appreciate regardless of what I do at the Olympics. I have big hopes, but, just to go there and knowing people are watching you its motivational.”

While at home, Harrigan participated in last Thursday’s opening of the new Mondo track, although she did not get to see a lot of the competition because of her schedule, but managed to see a few events. “Seeing the athletes going out there and working hard was good but some of them stopped and walked, which showed signs of defeat,” she noted. “I don’t think you should ever give up—which I saw some people doing—which wasn’t the best thing to do but sticking to it. There were some of them out there that really have potential and should work hard and they’ll have success.”

Harrigan said she wanted to see Victrix Ludorum Britney Wattley running the 200 meters where she became the first female athlete to dip under 25 seconds during the inter-house championships but saw her running a strong 4 x 400 meter relay leg. “She’s looking good,” Harrigan said. “I saw her compete in Miami and she has a passion for competition and doesn’t show signs of intimidation.”

Harrigan said she’s planning on opening her outdoor season in Trinidad, but will make a decision as the time gets closer on whether she’s ready to compete or not. She said if she’s not ready, she’ll withdraw. “But as of right now, I will be in Trinidad,” she said. “Training has been slightly up and down since worlds. I have a slight injury and wasn’t able to train as much on the track. I did a lot of bike and pool workouts. I came back on the track and in the first week it was like handicapping yourself because you were scared to run. But, with the training I’ve done, I haven’t really lost much. I’m still coming along well and I have no fears.”

Harrigan will also run the 400 meters at least one this season. “Oh, it’s mandatory. I have no choice,” she pointed out. “My coach thinks I can do a really good job with it.”