Forbes : New JAAA executive a 'good mix'

Business executive Ian Forbes is the new first vice-president of the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA).

The Warren Blake-led executive which had served the sport for the past four years was not challenged at Tuesday's annual general meeting held at the Medallion Hall Hotel in Kingston, but there were a few changes among the executive members.

Forbes, the second vice- president in the last administration, moved up to the post of first vice-president to replace Dave Myrie, who did not seek re-election. Myrie is the principal of Kingston College.

Forbes told The Gleaner that he is always happy to serve the JAAA.

"This role means a lot to me and it is an honour and privilege to be selected to represent one's national athletics association. I have been associated with the sport for many years since being a toddler following in my father's footsteps. He is also an executive member," said Forbes.

Forbes described the executive as a 'good mix' of people.

"Based on the skills set of the people selected, I think it is a good mix which will really propel the sport forward . I will serve in whatever capacity the committee sees fit and I am willing to work hard and diligently to ensure track and field in Jamaica remains at the pinnacle," said Forbes, who also dispelled rumours that he was approached to challenge Blake once again on a different slate.

 

Rumours

 

"Many rumours were going around which were not really correct, but my mission is to serve in whatever capacity," he said.

Three members who had opposed Blake's team four years ago are on the new executive. They are Lincoln Eatmon, now second vice-president; Juliet Parkes-Livermore and Leroy Cooke.

Parkes-Livermore, who has accompanied teams to overseas meets, is making a return. Cooke, who was manager of the track and field team to the World Junior Championships in Poland last July, is now the director of records. He replaces Ewan Scott.

 

Full executive

 

President Dr Warren Blake

First vice-president Ian Forbes

Second vice-president Lincoln Eatmon

Third vice-president Michael Frater

Fourth vice-president Vilma Charlton

Secretary Garth Gayle

Assistant secretary Marie Tavares

Treasurer Ludlow Watts

Director of records Leroy Cooke

Executive members: Gregory Hamilton, Juliet Parkes-Livermore, George Forbes, Maxine Brown, Dr Carl Bruce, Trevor Campbell, Ewan Scott and Michael Clarke.