KINGSTON, Jamaica — Prime Minister Andrew Holness and Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Olivia Grange on Friday hosted the Special Olympics team at a reception at Jamaica House.

Grange said the reception “was about showing support, love and appreciation for our Special Olympics team that did so well at the World Summer Games in Abu Dhabi in March.”

The Jamaican team won 14 gold, 10 silver and 8 bronze medals in Abu Dhabi, which represents the nation’s best showing at the Special Olympics World Games.

Grange said the team deserves special accolade for their performances.

“I cannot think of another team that tries as hard, that overcomes as much, that inspires us as much as our Special Olympians do. They deserve all our praise and all our support,” the minister said.

She also used the opportunity to announce that a member of the team — Badminton player Travis Ebanks — had been awarded a scholarship to complete tertiary studies.

“Our special athletes are succeeding in every area of life — including academics. Tonight we especially celebrate Travis Ebanks. Travis is in his final year as a law student at the University of the West Indies, but it has been a challenge for Travis. When I heard that he was having financial difficulty and was in danger of dropping out of the programme, I made the decision that must never happen.

“I’m proud to say that he has been awarded a full scholarship; he will continue his programme; he will overcome another challenge; and he will graduate from law school.”

Grange thanked the Principal of the UWI, Mona Campus, Professor Dale Webber; Arlene Supersad; and Dr Denise Eldemire Shearer for helping to secure a scholarship for Travis Ebanks.

Each member of the Special Olympics team was presented with a certificate at the Jamaica House reception.