For the first time in history, the Jamaica Cycling Federation has secured a seat on the Pan-American Cycling Federation (COPACI) Board, as General Secretary Donna-Kaye Sharpe claimed one of four spots on the COPACI Management Committee. The elections, held during the COPACI Congress in Panama on February 26, 2025, saw 37 of the 42 member federations from North, Central, and South America, as well as the Caribbean, cast their votes to elect a 21-member board for the 2025-2029 term.

Jamaica’s delegation, led by Federation President Dr. Wayne Palmer alongside Sharpe, celebrated this milestone achievement, marking a significant step forward for Jamaican cycling on the international stage. Sharpe’s election to the COPACI Management Team underscores the nation’s growing influence in the sport and highlights her role as a key advocate for cycling development in the region.

Longstanding COPACI President Jose Manuel Pelaez of Cuba retained his position for his final term, defeating Argentine challenger Juan Esteban Curuchet with a decisive margin of 22 votes. Among the other key elections, the Caribbean region gained notable representation, with Trinidad & Tobago’s Cycling Federation President Rowena Williams securing the Caribbean Vice Presidency over St. Lucian candidate Cyril Mangal.

Rowena Williams

Sharpe, who also serves on the Caribbean Cycling Union (CCU) board, has already begun working on critical regional issues, including the long-standing absence of a velodrome in Jamaica. The matter has been escalated to both COPACI and CCU, with commitments from both entities to collaborate with Jamaica’s Ministry of Sports in finding a resolution.

Cyril Mangal

This historic election is a testament to Jamaica’s growing presence in the sport, and with Sharpe at the helm of key discussions, the future looks promising for the country’s cycling infrastructure and athlete development.