New York, United States – As easing of COVID-19 restrictions takes effect across the USA and the Caribbean, Team Jamaica Bickle (TJB) is preparing to welcome Jamaican athletes to the Penn Relays Carnival for 2022.

TJB was well into planning mode in 2020 when the coronavirus pandemic halted most sporting activities worldwide, the Penn Relays being no exception. It’s been two years but Team Jamaica Bickle and the athletes it serves is ready for the 125th staging of the Penn Relays.

According to a release, the highly anticipated sporting event will take place at Franklin Field, University of Pennsylvania, April 28-30, 2022.

Team Jamaica Bickle’s Irwine Clare Sr in expressing his delight on the return of athletes to Pennsylvania, said, “we know that our athletes have trained hard to showcase their prowess on the international stage and must be thrilled to be back on this revered stage for track and field, not only for bragging rights but most importantly to secure scholarships to colleges and universities overseas.”

“We know many of them would have been disappointed over the two years’ absence, even while scaled-down versions were held,” he continued, noting that many were able to take advantage of scholarship opportunities during the hiatus as their body of work would have allowed colleges to make those decisions.

For 2022 staging of the Penn Relays, the setup will be different from previous years. Meals will be pre-packaged and available for pickup by team managers at the hotel or on location at the relays.

“This will minimise contact under COVID-19 protocols,” the release read.

“Most schools make use of the coordinated services and hugely discounted accommodation rates negotiated by TJB at what is considered the team hotel. The organisation also helps with ground transportation, including daily shuttles to the stadium. Physiotherapy services are offered by a team led by Dr Thien Dang-Tan standing by to provide much-needed services to the athletes,” it continued.

TJB says at present, it is knee deep in planning with a slew of fund-raising activities. The highlight will be a luncheon to be held Sunday April 24, 12 from noon to 5:00 pm, at the Crest Hollow Country Club, 8325 Jericho Turnpike, Woodbury, NY. Noted Olympian and Educator Vilma B Charlton, OD, will be honoured with the Pioneer in Athletics & Exemplary Leader in Sport Award. Other honorees are Stephen Drummond, Esq; Dawn Warren, Esq; David Warren, Esq, and JoAnne Squillace, Esq.