Pastor Cislyn Powell, mother of Olympic gold medallist Asafa Powell, prays at a church service held yesterday. - File

The St Catherine church led by Asafa Powell's mother yesterday celebrated the former world-record holder's exploits at the 12th IAAF World Championships in Athletics in Berlin, Germany, where he won two medals for Jamaica.

Pastor Cislyn Powell led the congregation of the Waterloo National Church of God in St Catherine in prayer and thanksgiving, stressing that her son has made the country proud.

Very special occasion

Pastor Powell told The Gleaner that the occasion was very special and that it took divine power to will her son to run creditably in the championships, where he won a bronze medal in the 100 metres and gold in the 4x100m relay.

"After the race, he called while we were praying and thanking him for doing well. He said to me, 'Mama, it was handicap running as I had to run almost on one foot due to my injuries'," Pastor Powell told The Gleaner.

While she basked in her son's glory, she also congratulated world-record holder Usain Bolt.

"As for Mr Bolt, he is really something very special and it goes to show that this little country is very blessed with talent," she said.

Pastor Powell said her family was planning a special event for Asafa's arrival at the conclusion of his track season.

rasbert.turner@gleanerjm.com