In yet another display of well-needed support, the Jamaica Olympic Association (JOA) once again demonstrated its commitment to sports development by stepping in to rescue the Jamaica Surfing Association, ensuring the nation’s surfers can ride the waves at the upcoming World Championship in Arecibo, Puerto Rico.
Responding to the urgent plea from the Jamaica Surfing Association, citing the non-materialization of promised funding from the Sports Development Foundation (SDF), the JOA not only fulfilled its initial commitment of a JMD$800,000 cash injection but has gone above and beyond by providing an additional JMD$400,000.
This generous intervention bridges the financial gap, empowering the aspiring surfers to compete at the World Championship scheduled from February 23 to March 3, 2024.
Icah Wilmot, President of the Jamaica Surfing Association and an internationally certified coach, expressed heartfelt gratitude, stating, “Thank you so much JOA for the support and assistance. You are life savers, and now we are heading to the competition to put our best foot forward, representing the nation with our eyes on the ultimate prize of spots at the 2024 Olympic Games.”
Surfing has been gaining momentum locally in recent years, showcasing its Olympic and Paralympic credentials, capturing the attention and support of the JOA.
JOA President Christopher Samuda shared an optimistic outlook, stating, “Gale force winds blew, torrential rains there were; but the storm is over now, and light and liberty are on the horizon.”
Meanwhile, JOA Secretary General/CEO, Ryan Foster, expressed the association’s continued support, saying, “Not even a tsunami could prevent us from giving our accomplished surfing ambassadors the opportunity to rule the waves.”
With several sports now in the process of qualifying for the Paris Olympic Games, the JOA’s timely intervention exemplifies its dedication to fostering excellence in sports, ensuring that athletes across diverse disciplines have the opportunity to shine on the global stage.
