First things first, Celebrity Christmas wishes Jehue Gordon a very Happy Birthday! The T&T track star, who turns 20 today, says high on his birthday agenda is “training like a beast at the gym.” And he has good reason to, as he eyes Olympic glory for T&T next year in London. A Sport Management major at the University of the West Indies, Gordon is no stranger to success, having copped a bronze medal in the 400m Hurdles at the 2008 CARIFTA Games in St Kitts and Nevis.

Last year, the young athlete went on to capture Gold at the World Junior Championships in Canada and later signed a lucrative deal with Adidas. Gordon recently gained international attention when he was featured by the BBC as one to keep an eye on in the world of track and field.

What do you think of when you hear the word Christmas?

When I hear the word Christmas I think about peace, joy and happiness...Just a time to sit back relax and have fun with friends and family. It doesn’t really mean gifts and stuff for me. I have the gift of life and that’s the most important thing.

How early do you start your Christmas preparations?

I don’t start preparing for Christmas until a few days before because of training and exams at UWI.

Do you have a family Christmas tradition?

Our family Christmas tradition is for everyone to visit our grandmother and have lunch on Boxing Day. My family prepares different meals and we just have fun during the day. We listen to music, talk about memories and think about the past year.

Have your views on Christmas changed from when you were a child?
When I was younger I would be very excited for Christmas day so that I can open my gifts from Santa, now I just treat it as a normal day and be very laid back.

Who does the Christmas cooking in your family?
My mom usually does the majority of the cooking but my dad normally cooks on Christmas day. Even though my father was a chef, I would say my mom is the better cook. She normally cooks healthier and more delicious stuff.

What is your ‘must have’ Christmas dish?
It’s all about ham and sorrel and freshly baked bread. I don’t really pay attention to anything else…Turkey is too dry.

What would be your ideal 2011 Christmas present?
My ideal present is for everyone in my family to live in peace and unity. I just want to see that my family has life and strength and that everybody shows love for each other.

What is your Christmas wish for T&T?
My Christmas wish for T&T is for continued guidance from Jehovah above and continued blessings.

By Cherisse Moe

Source: www.guardian.co.tt