Just days after returning from their successful campaign at the 52nd CARIFTA Games in Trinidad and Tobago, just under 50 Jamaican athletes were treated to a warm and heartfelt reception in New York City, courtesy of Team Jamaica Bickle (TJB). The event, which took place at St. John’s United Methodist Church in Elmont, Long Island, was part of a coordinated effort by the organization to provide support, comfort, and seamless onward transportation for the athletes en route to Philadelphia for the upcoming Penn Relays.

The reception, organized in collaboration with members of the New York Jamaican diaspora, was a showcase of community spirit and cultural pride. Volunteers decorated the church hall, while nearby restaurants provided traditional Jamaican meals — a welcome taste of home for the young athletes who had spent days competing abroad.

“These were likely the first home-cooked Jamaican meals they’d had in several days,” said Irwin Clare, founder of Team Jamaica Bickle. “From all indications, the athletes were extremely appreciative. We were happy to provide a space where they could relax, refresh, and be celebrated.”

The gathering was headlined by Jamaica’s Consul General to New York, Alsion Roach Wilson, and featured support from local clergy and community leaders. After the reception, the athletes were transported by luxury coach to Philadelphia, where they will continue preparations for one of the most anticipated events on the North American track calendar.

Team Jamaica Bickle, which has served the needs of Jamaican and Caribbean athletes at the Penn Relays for over two decades, has long played a pivotal role in athlete welfare. From providing meals and transportation to securing medical and logistical support, the organization continues to be a cornerstone of Jamaican athletic success abroad.

“This is what we do,” Clare added. “We view these young athletes as ambassadors of Jamaica. It’s a privilege to serve them, especially after the amazing performances they delivered at CARIFTA.”

Each athlete also received a gift package, a small but meaningful token of appreciation from the diaspora community. The operation to host and support the athletes began as early as the previous Friday, when TJB mobilized its network of volunteers and sponsors to make the initiative possible.

With the Penn Relays just days away, the reception served not only as a celebration of recent victories but also as a boost of encouragement and community love ahead of the next challenge.