Chase Jackson has been making merry in the track and field realm recently. Competing in the discus throw and the shotput events, Jackson has made quite a name for herself. While she has won some significant accolades during her career, the 2022 World Championships will surely hold a special place in her heart. Winning the gold medal, Jackson became the very first American woman to win a shot put world title. And there was more!
Displaying incredible skill and talent, Jackson took just one attempt to secure her gold. Thus, she also became the first female shot put world champion to win gold on her first try. She also retained her title the following year, winning her second World Championship gold in 2023. Speaking about her other notable achievements, Jackson won 1 Diamond League gold medal each in 2022 Zurich and 2023 Eugene. Thus, it is evident that Chase Jackson has been quite an accomplished performer. However, the ones without whom Chase would not have come this far are her parents. Here’s everything about them.
Who is Chase Jackson’s father?
Chuck Ealey is the father of Chase Jackson. Chase’s father met her mother, Michelle Martinez, while Chuck was working for the US Army. Posted at the White Stand Missile Range in New Mexico, the duo relocated to Sangamon County. It was here that Chase was born and continued living in Riverton till the World Champion athlete was 3 years old. Unfortunately, soon after, Chuck and Michelle decided to go their separate ways. Young Chase followed her mother and moved to Los Alamos.
Speaking of her athletic abilities, Chuck Ealey provided some interesting insights. Chuck stated that after faltering at the Tokyo Olympics, Chase appointed a new coach. And soon, things took a drastic turn. “In 2020, she didn’t do well,” her father said. “And then she got COVID. She got sick and she was really doing bad. So, she hooked up with a friend and ended up going to England. She parted ways with her coach and (then she) got with that coach in England, and she has just skyrocketed since then.” Surely, the change worked. Chase Jackson can now make a throw of more than 68 feet with an 8.82-pound ball!
Who is Chase Ealey Jackson’s mother?
Chase Ealey Jackson’s success on the track and field stage is no accident. Rather, it’s deeply rooted in the unending support of her mother, Michelle Naranjo-Martinez. From a young age, Michelle recognized Chase’s athletic potential. Since then, she has vowed to nurture it with steadfast encouragement and belief. Years later, now as she proudly witnesses her daughter grab the wins, she does not forget to acknowledge Ealey’s worth.
“She works so hard… she trains five days a week… Chase is really dedicated,” Michelle said in a 2019 interview with the Los Alamos Daily Post. She further added, “I know she’d hate it that I’m bragging about her. She’s very humble. But I want other kids to know what it’s possible to achieve.” However, some opposite grounds bind the mother-daughter duo even stronger.
Michelle is a self-described “tomboy.” And that contrasts with Ealey’s “girly girl” personality. But their bond has remained unshakable. After divorcing Chase’s father, Chuck Ealey, Michelle moved with Chase to Los Alamos, New Mexico, where she encouraged her daughter’s multi-sport prowess. Chase thrived under her mother’s guidance, excelling in track and field at Los Alamos High School (LAHS). At LAHS, she claimed multiple state championships in the 100 meters, shot put, and javelin.
Naranjo-Martinez’s pride in Chase extends beyond just medals and accolades. “She will probably be mad at me for bragging about her, but I am just so proud of everything she has accomplished,” the mother admitted. Even as Chase transitioned to a professional career, Michelle has remained her daughter’s biggest cheerleader. She even proudly follows her daughter’s journey on social media.
The mother who stood like a pillar for Chase hasn’t only shaped her athletic career. But her influence also impacted her work ethic and humility. “That little ball has been very good to her!” Michelle once joked about Chase’s success in the throws. Chase and Michelle have yet again proved that behind every success story is a mother whose quiet strength helps the talent rise to the top.
What is Chase Jackson’s parents’ nationality?
Chase Jackson’s athletic success is grounded in her American heritage. Born Chase Foster Ealey in Springfield, Illinois, she is the daughter of Chuck Ealey and Michelle Martinez. Both her parents are American nationals. While her father has served in the nation’s army, Ealey’s mom has been a visible source of support throughout her career. Jackson’s achievements reflect not only her hard work but also the strong foundation built by her American-born parents.
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