Jamaican long jump sensation Tajay Gayle has expressed gratitude towards his former coach, Stephen Francis, despite parting ways with the MVP Track and Field Club. Gayle, who recently clinched a silver medal at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan, attributes his successful transition to Kerry-Lee Ricketts’ training camp to Francis’s guidance. The 29-year-old athlete, who leaped an impressive 8.34 meters in Tokyo, has been regaining his form since joining the St Elizabeth-based Ricketts Performance Club in late 2024. This marked his first major achievement since leaving MVP, where he had trained under Francis. Gayle admitted to initial apprehensions about the move but now views his podium finish as validation of his decision. He emphasized that the split with Francis was amicable, with no lingering animosity. Gayle also revealed that Francis recommended Ricketts, a decision he initially questioned but ultimately embraced after a conversation with the coach. The athlete praised the positive and supportive environment at Ricketts’ camp, highlighting its role in his recent success and future aspirations.