HER running shoes are laced up and she’s ready to sprint into City Hall.

Jamaican-born Denise Grant is running for mayor of Lauderhill, Florida in November 2024, and she is using sports as a catalyst to get there.

Her campaign is built around impacting young lives through sports and other physical activities.

“As a commissioner and candidate for mayor in the city of Lauderhill, I am proud to have already made a significant impact in fostering a culture of excellence in youth sports. Through my unwavering support and initiatives, I have empowered our young people to develop essential skills and values, while recognising the profound impact sports has on their holistic development,” Grant told the Jamaica Observer.

She has thrown her weight behind this year’s staging of the ICC T20 World Cup and recently welcomed former West Indies star Chris Gayle in his role as ambassador for the tournament.

She met Gayle through his publicist Sean “Contractor” Edwards, who initiated the arrangements.

“I am delighted to welcome World Cup Cricket to Lauderhill and Broward County in June 2024. Chris Gayle, a cricket legend, is the perfect ambassador for this prestigious event. His dedication to excellence and impressive track record make him an ideal representative.

“Gayle exemplifies the core values of cricket, embodying the spirit of the game through his conduct and performance. I am honoured to have him serve as the ambassador for World Cup Cricket 2024. Get ready for an unforgettable experience,” said Grant, adding, “Hosting the T20 World Cup Cricket in Lauderhill will be a game-changer for our city.”

She told the Observer that the prestigious international sporting event will bring unprecedented attention and traction to the community, showcasing Lauderhill as a vibrant and dynamic destination city.

“The economic impact will be significant, with an influx of visitors and cricket fans from around the world injecting millions of dollars into our local businesses, hotels, and restaurants.

“Additionally, the event will provide a unique opportunity to highlight Lauderhill’s cultural diversity, tourist attractions, and world-class facilities, further solidifying our city’s reputation as a premier destination for sports and entertainment. We are thrilled to welcome the cricket community and look forward to a memorable and impactful event,” said Grant.

If elected mayor come November, Grant plans to use her platform to help build out a wholesome living project with sports at the core.

“My dedication to the Lauderhill Lions soccer academy since 2014 has brought resources, programmes, and professional athlete partnerships, enhancing the club’s mission. Personally connected through my son’s participation, I have witnessed first-hand the transformative power of sports under exceptional coaches like Keith Davis.

“I am launching Youth Alive, a pioneering programme addressing self-esteem and mental wellness, cultivating self-confidence among our student-athletes. This programme will provide remarkable results in shaping confident, compassionate leaders,” said Grant.

She added: “My commitment to sports development has created a thriving ecosystem in Lauderhill, providing a platform for our youth to flourish, grow, and become the best version of themselves. I am proud of the progress we have made and look forward to continued growth and success in empowering our young people through sports.

“I have and will continue to engage and work with professional athletes and industry experts to bring resources and substance to our youth programmes,” said Grant, who was born in Manchester and went to the United States at age nine when her family emigrated.