Preparations are in full swing for the Aquatic Sports Association of Jamaica (ASAJ), as it readies to host its inaugural awards ceremony on March 1 at Terra Nova Hotel in St Andrew. 

The inaugural event will recognise the remarkable performances and contributions of Jamaica’s national and age group athletes in aquatic sports throughout 2024.

In addition to honouring the athletes, the ceremony will also serve as a fundraiser to help boost morale, strengthen team spirit, and enhance the ASAJ’s visibility in the global aquatic community.

Awards will be presented to athletes registered with the ASAJ for their performances between January and December 2024. The categories for recognition include male and female athletes of the year, relay performance of the year and open water swimmer of the year, among others.

Decorated Olympic swimmer Alia Atkinson will serve as the guest speaker for the event.

Atkinson, a five-time Olympic swimmer and world champion, has made indelible contributions to Jamaica’s swimming legacy. Her accomplishments, including setting multiple world records and winning numerous world championship titles, have elevated her as a true ambassador for the sport.

Atkinson’s continued dedication to the sport, post-retirement, includes hosting swimming clinics for the next generation and founding WATABOUND, a holistic mentoring programme. She is also a performance and wellness coach with extensive certifications in sports nutrition and physical training.

“Through this awards ceremony, we aim to celebrate the dedication and hard work of our athletes, while also fostering a sense of community and unity within the ASAJ,” said Lance Rochester, president of the Aquatic Sports Association of Jamaica. “We are excited to have Alia Atkinson join us as our guest speaker, as her journey exemplifies the values of excellence, perseverance, and leadership.”