Minister Grange Hails Athletes (JIS)

KINGSTON, August 5 (JIS):

Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Hon. Olivia Grange, has hailed the performance of Team Jamaica, so far, in the 2024 Olympic Games now under way in Paris, France.

In a message published in the July issue of the Ministry’s ‘Big Up Magazine’, Minister Grange commended the athletes for representing Jamaica and lifting the country’s spirits.

“At this trying time when we continue to recover from the effects of hurricane Beryl, your resilience in the face of adversity will strengthen us all to build back better and stronger. We are inspired by your commitment, your dedication and your tireless work — day after day for many years — which have enabled you to become some of the best athletes in the world,” said the Sports Minister.

The Minister further praised the systems of support that have helped the team along their way to this year’s Olympic Games.

“No one ever succeeds without the help of others, and so I want to use this opportunity to thank everyone who has helped you along the way. Big up and congratulations to your parents, family, coaches, and the other members of your support team. We also pay tribute to the physical education teachers and sports officers who spotted and nurtured your athletic talent and continue to perform this important role every day,” said Minister Grange.

She also reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to enabling and encouraging Jamaica’s athletes to thrive from the grassroots to the high-performance level.

“Whether it’s funding the development work of each national sports federation, or providing the requisite infrastructure, we are here,” the Minister assured.

She gave special commendations to eight-time Olympic medallist, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Price for her stellar contribution to the country over the years.

“These will be the final Olympics for one of the greatest sprinters the world has ever seen, Jamaica’s own Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce. Thank you, Shelly-Ann for the memories, for the performances, for the victories, for the records, for the inspiration, for making us all proud. Go Team Jamaica. BIG UP!”, beamed the Sport Minister.