I am excited to introduce to you Melaika Russell, a promising 16-year-old junior triathlete who finished first place in the 16-19 female category at the Jamaica Triathlon Association (JTA) National Triathlon Championships which was held Sunday July 16, 2023, in Port Royal. Based on her time she was selected to represent Jamaica at the 2023 CARIFTA Triathlon Championships in Nassau, Bahamas to be held August 26 -27, 2023. This event serves as a significant platform for junior athletes from across the Caribbean to showcase their skills and sportsmanship while fostering a sense of respectful competition among the youth.

At age 9, Melaika participated in her first triathlon where she won in the 9-10 category and in 2017, she became the Junior Female Champion at the National JTA Super Sprint Triathlon. In 2022 Melaika competed at the inaugural JTA National Schools Triathlon and Aquathlon Championships in which she placed 1st beating all participants, both male and female, in the 13-15 triathlon category and was also the first female at the 2022 Sun City Sprint Distance Triathlon and the 2022 National Super Sprint Triathlon Championships. At the 2023 Jakes Off-Road Triathlon, Treasure Beach, St. Elizabeth, Melaika placed second only to an elite female participant from Canada.

She was selected to participate at the 2022 CARIFTA Triathlon Championships in Bermuda but was unable to attend due to funding issues. This year she is also expected to be part of the relay team, which would give Jamaica the chance to gain additional points.

We are seeking assistance with airfare of approximately USD$1000 (which includes bike fees) and accommodation of approximately USD$1000 for four nights at the designated hotel. Plus additional funds to sponsor her in future events.

The purpose of the CARIFTA Triathlon Competition is to promote talented junior athletes. Your sponsorship will not only aid in Melaika’s quest to compete at this event but also, you will be nurturing the growth of a potential star athlete whose success can inspire countless other young persons in Jamaica to pursue this sport and help Jamaica gain international recognition in Triathlon.

The deadline for the submission of the final participants’ list is July 27, 2023.

Thank you for your assistance.