Team Jamaica Bickle (TJB) will hold its annual Awards Reception and Fundraiser on Tuesday, April 16, 2013, at Brooklyn Borough Hall, under the distinguished patronage of the Honorable Marty Markowitz, Brooklyn Borough President. This year the organization will honor Olympian, Dean Hemmings-McCatty, OD, among others. Hemmings-McCatty, is the first female track and field athlete in Jamaica and the English Speaking Caribbean to win individual Olympic gold. She created that bit of history at the 1996 Olympic Games, in Atlanta, Georgia in the 400m hurdles, breaking the Olympic record which stood to 2004.
Hemmings remains active in the sports world in Jamaica, serving as founding member and Chairwoman of the Central Jamaica Junior Schools Classics. She is also an executive member of the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA) and is an Athletes Commission Member, International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF).
“I am delighted to be honored by Team Jamaica Bickle, a great organization which does so much good for our athletes”, said Hemmings-McCatty.
Team Jamaica Bickle, now in its 19th year of operation continues to be a pillar of support for approximately 750 Jamaican and Caribbean athletes who compete at the annual Penn Relays. Through its partnership with Vincent HoSang’s Caribbean Food Delights, and the HoSang Family Foundation, the organization has served thousands of meals to athletes each year. The organization also provides ground transportation, medical and top-notch chiropractic care and negotiates and books hotel accommodation for the entire contingent. “We remain committed to ensuring our athletes enjoy a ‘home-away-from-home’, atmosphere when they are at the Penn Relays,” said Irwine Clare, Sr., CEO of the organization. He expressed the organization’s pleasure in honoring Hemmings-McCatty, citing her historic achievements and the excellent example she has set for up and coming athletes. TJB continues to be supported by sponsors such as the Lomax Foundation, Grace Foods, UJAA, Tower Isle Patties, The Door Restaurant and SuperWings. The public may obtain more information about the event and organization by calling 718.523.2861 or emailing teamjamaicabickle@gmail.com.
