The Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA) successfully concluded its Annual General Meeting (AGM) for 2025, held last month, in a remarkably non-contentious and informative session. The yearly event, which provides an essential platform for the Association’s members to review the year’s activities and financials, saw a high degree of consensus and a focus on continued support for Jamaican athletes.

President’s Report Highlights Achievements

The AGM commenced with the President’s Report, delivered by Mr. Garth Gayle CD, JP, President of the JAAA. His presentation was described by attendees as highly informative and provided a comprehensive overview of the Association’s operations and the notable achievements of the year. The report set a positive tone, reflecting a year of successful competition and organizational stability.

Financial Health and Athlete Support

The highlight of the evening for many members was the presentation of the financials by the Honorary Treasurer, Mr. Ludlow Watts. Mr. Watts delivered the much-anticipated report, detailing the comparison of the Association’s financial performance from 2024 to 2025, confirming that the Organization is in good standing.

He noted that the main expenses for the year were primarily attributed to the major international competitions in which Jamaica’s athletes participated:

  • The World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan.

  • The Carifta Games in Trinidad and Tobago.

  • The NACAC Meets and World Relays.

Crucially, Mr. Watts drew attention to the financial commitment to the athletes, reporting that the Assistance to Athletes expenditure was significantly more than the previous year. While pleased with the increase, he emphasised the Association’s commitment to doing more, stating clearly that the current amount is “not enough” and the JAAA “endeavours to do more for athletes” in the future.

Unusually Quiet Q&A Session

While AGMs often involve spirited discussions and numerous questions, this year’s session was notably quiet on the contentious front. Members in attendance participated in the discussion, but only one question was posed to the floor. The sole query addressed a matter of parity, focusing on the disparity between women’s competition equipment and that of the men’s, suggesting a review of resource allocation in this area.

This lack of contentious issues underscores a generally favourable view of the JAAA’s management and operations over the past year.

Track Renovation Announcement

Towards the close of the meeting, a crucial piece of infrastructure news was shared with the members. A representative informed the JAAA that the GC Foster track is scheduled to undergo renovation work during the first three weeks of January 2026. This temporary closure will require stakeholders and athletes to make necessary alternative arrangements for training during that period.

The AGM, which remains a private event and is not broadcast to the public, was only open to members in good standing. Membership status was checked at the entrance, with provisions for payment.