ACIJ/JMB showcasing ‘Jamaica’s Olympic Glory’

In terms of medal count and the quality of the six medals that Jamaica earned at the just-concluded 2024 Olympics in Paris, France, was the most disappointing since 2008 when Jamaica, a fully fledged bird, flew around the ‘Bird Nest’ stadium in Beijing, China, announcing to the world that we are truly a track and field powerhouse.

There are many reasons why our wings were partially clipped in Paris. But, like the mythical phoenix, we shall rise again. The memories of our past exploits, too, shall never die. And the African Caribbean Institute of Jamaica/Jamaica Memory Bank (ACIJ/JMB), located at 12 Ocean Boulevard in Kingston, is helping to make sure that they will not.

It is hosting an exhibition titled ‘Jamaica’s Olympic Glory – Our Triumphs at the Olympic Games’. It is a celebration of Jamaica’s achievements at the pre-Paris Olympic games, and a showcasing of icons and images associated with Olympic celebrations in Jamaica. It is open to the public and will run until August 31, 2024.

“In celebration of Jamaica’s 62nd Independence, the exhibition complements the ‘Journey to Independence’ exhibition currently on display at the ACIJ/JMB. Jamaica has a storied history of excellence in track and field athletics, with legendary performances by athletes such as Arthur Wint, Deon Hemmings, Merlene Ottey, Veronica Campbell-Brown, Usain Bolt, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, and many others. This exhibition honours these icons and the national pride their victories inspire,” the ACIJ/JMB says.

The exhibition features a range of authentic items, including Michael McCallum’s boxing gloves from the 1976 Montreal Games, Veronica Campbell-Brown’s maquette (model of a sculpture), a replica of the London 2012 Olympic torch, Dutch pot covers, the original podium jacket from the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, training performance gear worn by Jamaican athletes at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, spikes belonging to Asafa Powell and Veronica Campbell-Brown, a Jamaican flag, vuvuzela horns used in celebrations, and a video loop featuring Jamaica’s best Olympic performances.

“This exhibition not only showcases Jamaica’s athletic prowess, but also highlights the cultural and historical significance of the Olympics in shaping national identity and pride of the Jamaican people. Join us in celebrating the achievements of our athletes and the spirit of resilience and excellence that defines Brand Jamaica,” the ACIJ/JMB also says.

MONUMENTAL ACHIEVEMENTS

The influence that the annual Inter-Secondary School Sports Association’s Boys’ and Girls’ Athletics Championships (Champs) has on Jamaica’s Olympics success was not overlooked, as a section of one of the storyboards says, “ Jamaican’s outstanding success in athletics did not happen overnight. Its Olympics triumphs are deeply rooted in the development and success of the Inter-Secondary School Sports Association’s Boys’ and Girls’ Athletics Championships (Champs).

“Since its inception in 1910, Champs has nurtured and propelled athletes, such as Arthur Wint, Donald Quarrie, Merlene Ottey, Melaine Walker and Usain Bolt. These athletes, among others, transitioned from the junior games to become Olympic champions,World and Olympic record-holders, and ambassadors for ‘brand Jamaica’. Consequently, Champs has gained a reputation of being the hallmark of Jamaica’s Olympic success.”

The ACIJ/JMB is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage and history of Jamaica and the African-Caribbean diaspora. Through exhibitions, educational programmes, and community outreach, the ACIJ/JMB seeks to enhance public awareness and appreciation of Jamaica’s cultural legacy.

“I want viewers to come away with a deep sense of national pride and inspiration from ‘Jamaica’s Olympic Glory – Our Triumphs at the Olympic Games’ exhibition. I hope viewers gain a profound appreciation for the rich history and monumental achievements of Jamaica’s track and field athletes, who have consistently demonstrated resilience, determination, and extraordinary talent on the world stage.

“Beyond just celebrating our Olympic legacy, I want viewers to recognise the impact of these achievements on our national identity, as well as our Caribbean identity, and feel motivated by Jamaica’s legacy of excellence on the global stage,” Abigail Williams, education outreach officer at the ACIJ/JMB, told The Gleaner.