Jamaica’s Minister of Sport Olivia Grange has pledged her support for Dale and Dave Oddman, twin para-athletes who recently lost their mother, Sharon Oddman, on February 12. The Minister made the announcement on Wednesday at the launch of the 2025 Melbourne Cricket Club/Pure Water 5K Run/Walk at the Melbourne Cricket Grounds in Kingston.

During her address, Minister Grange took a moment to express her condolences to the 43-year-old brothers, who have been representing Jamaica in roller skating and speed skating for more than three decades. Their mother, she noted, was a dedicated supporter of Special Olympics Jamaica, making her passing a significant loss to both the twins and the wider Special Olympics movement.

"I'm also going to use the opportunity to express my condolences to Dave and Dale Oddman," Minister Grange stated.

"They lost their mom on February 12. Sharon Oddman, she died, and I know it's a sad time for them. She was extremely active in the Special Olympics movement. So we have lost a trooper for the movement, and we express our condolences."

The Oddman twins have made history for Jamaica on the international stage. Dale Oddman won bronze in the 100m roller skating event at the 2019 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Abu Dhabi, securing Jamaica’s first medal at the championships.

His brother Dave Oddman, a standout in both Summer and Winter Special Olympics Games, claimed gold and silver in speed skating at the 2017 Special Olympics Winter Games in Austria.

Minister Grange commended their lifelong dedication to representing Jamaica, highlighting the remarkable 32 years they have spent competing in international events.

"Would you believe they are now at the tender age of 43, and they have been doing this for most of their lives? It is really commendable," she said.

Recognizing their long-standing contributions and the challenges they now face following their mother’s passing, Minister Grange revealed that she intends to offer assistance to the brothers.

"I'm going to be speaking to them after the function here because I'm going to be offering assistance to them in this time of need," she confirmed.

Her remarks were met with applause, as those in attendance acknowledged the incredible achievements of the Oddman twins and the support they have given to Jamaica’s Special Olympics programme.

The 2025 Melbourne Cricket Club/Pure Water 5K Run/Walk, where the Minister made her announcement, will raise funds to support Jamaica’s Special Olympics team as they prepare for the 2025 Special Olympics Winter Games in Italy in March. The Oddman brothers have been exemplary ambassadors for Jamaica, and the Minister’s commitment to assisting them ensures that their legacy and contributions to the sport are not forgotten.