Minister Praises Aris’ Commitment to Track & Field

KINGSTON — Late President of the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA), Howard Aris, was laid to rest Tuesday, November 22,following a funeral service at the National Indoor Sports Centre in Kingston.

In her tribute to the late sports administrator, Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, Hon Olivia "Babsy" Grange, said that he will be greatly missed, but not forgotten.

"Howard's death will be a big loss to the leadership of track and field in Jamaica. Not only will his skills, knowledge and administrative capabilities be lost to us in Jamaica, but to the entire world of track and field which will be poorer for his passing,” Miss Grange said.

Addressing Mr. Aris' loyalty to track and field, she said that his contribution could not be overstressed.

"Today we can look forward in anticipation to a grand future in track and field in Jamaica, and we certainly look forward to London 2012.

"We can appreciate the fact that while we may be developing in some areas of international competition, we are developed and first class in the area of track and field, thanks to the enthusiasm and input of Howard Aris and the team he led," she said.

She also expressed condolences to his family and close associates and urged Jamaicans to use his life’s work as a template for their own loyalty and dedication to the success of the nation.

Leader of the Opposition, the Most Hon Portia Simpson Miller, also paid tribute to Mr. Aris.

Mr. Aris, affectionately called "Fudge", is survived by his wife, Sandra, his children, Quentin and Shannon and a grand-daughter, Neah.

By Aldeen Campbell, JIS Information Officer