The Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA) is still awaiting confirmation and final details regarding a reported US$50,000 worth of track and field equipment that Grand Slam Track founder Michael Johnson said was left in Jamaica following the inaugural meet held from April 4–6 at the National Stadium.
Speaking in an interview with Sportsmax.TV, JAAA executive member Ian Forbes confirmed that discussions had taken place with representatives of the Grand Slam Track series, but emphasized that no final agreement has been reached and the equipment is not yet in the possession of the JAAA.
“Yes, we’ve had discussions, and we’ve also followed up in writing based on those discussions regarding the possible donation of equipment. But nothing has been finalized just yet,” Forbes said.
Johnson, a four-time Olympic gold medallist and legendary American sprinter, told media following the Miami leg of the Grand Slam series last weekend that approximately US$50,000 worth of equipment had been left in Jamaica to benefit young athletes.
However, Forbes clarified that while the intention is for the equipment to support the development of track and field locally, the exact nature and timeline for distribution remain unresolved.
“We’re still confirming exactly how much and what type of equipment was left. From what I saw in a statement, it included hurdles and starting blocks—equipment along those lines—not necessarily running shoes,” Forbes explained.
He also confirmed that the equipment had not yet been handed over.
“Not in our possession as yet, no,” he said. “We would’ve hoped to have wrapped things up earlier, but once they left Jamaica, their focus understandably shifted to the next leg of the series. Now that there’s a bit of a breather, we’re hoping to conclude discussions and get a clearer picture soon.”
The Grand Slam Track series, backed by Johnson’s vision to revolutionize professional track and field, made its debut in Kingston before heading to Miramar, Florida. Two more meets are scheduled for Philadelphia (May 30–June 1) and Los Angeles (June 27–29).
Forbes noted that the JAAA remains optimistic that the donation will materialize in full and ultimately benefit Jamaica’s youth athletes, but stressed that until formal confirmation is received, no further details can be announced.
