Photo: Anna-Kay Edwards
There is an old saying that still holds true to this very day “Impossible is not a word, it’s just a reason for someone not to try”. Former Wolmers’ Girls athlete Anna-Kay Edwards will tell you she has learnt that very well. The young athlete who was virtually at a standstill as it relates to her tertiary education and track and field future after her high school journey in 2010.
The dream of becoming a medical doctor, while still pursuing the sport she loves, started to fade, when her application to the University of West Indies, Mona was not all positive. Failing to meet the pre-requisites and financial backing, she had the blessing of her friend and teammate national athlete Danielle Dowie who introduced her to the U.S. Elite International Track and Field programme.
Edwards was able to land a spot at the Livingstone College, where she started reading for her first degree, with major in Molecular Biology. The fact the school was not ranked in the top NCAA division did not deter her from giving of her utmost best. Anna-Kay was mindful that with nothing to worry about regarding her financing of school and living, she could focus on living her dream to its fullest.
She managed to maintain an excellent academic standing, while representing her school in the C.I.A. A. Division 2 Championship over her four years, copping several medals and honours over the 400m and middle distance events.
Being away from home and family, she was driven to success by her new caretakers. The US Elite Programme covered all her expenses, from tuition, place of residence to weekly stipend and care packages for her entire college life.
Edwards, a 2014 Graduate, former Miss Livingstone College, (campus) and a member of the Women’s Cross Country and Track Team was a nominee for the 2014 NCAA Woman of the Year Award.
The Woman of the Year Award honors those graduating female student-athletes who have made an impact throughout their careers in academics, athletics, service, and leadership.
Edwards was one of 75 nominee’s chosen who competed in Division 2 and just one of 3 female student-athletes chosen to represent the C.I.A.A. The other nominees were from the divisions 1 and 3.
Having completed her first degree the way forward was now clear as day for Edwards. She returned home to make her transition to the University of West Indies, Mona, pursuing her MBBS degree, as an aspiring Pediatrician. Speaking at the launch of the 1st USA/Elite scholarship track convention/ college fair, she told Yardie Sports that she along with her older sibling is a living testimony of the blessings of the US Elite program.
She encourages all young athletes that there is way forward.
“Amidst the route you will have to take to greatness, always be determined and believe that your dream can become a reality,” Edwards insisted.
She mentioned that athletes need to make every effort to be at the scheduled convention for October 31, 2015.
“Its 100% benefit that you will gain through the US elite program, a free education and free platform to pursue your track and field career. Both Keisha and Tresha Thorpe, chief administrators have been doing an excellent job. A program such as this is an opportunity worth grabbing, and as a past beneficiary it is top recommendation going forward,” she said.
The 1st US Elite track scholarship and track convention will be held on October 31, 2015 at the Jamaica Conference Centre. Applications are open now and forms are available on the organization website Us.elite.org.
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