Speakers at the opening ceremony for the 2019 Annual Road Relays held on Sunday, March 10, lavished a great deal of commendation on Ashley & Sons Supermarket for 25 years of contribution to the sporting lives of children in Anguilla.
Mrs. Tracelyn Hamilton, Education Officer, Multi- Professional Support Services, who chaired the event, drew the attention of the large crowd to the anniversary celebration and the benefits it has produced for the island’s schoolchildren.
Mrs. Hamilton was joined in her comments by Acting Chief Minister, Mr. Curtis Richardson; Parliamentary Secretary, Sports and Youth Affairs, Mr. Cardigan Connor; Director of Sports, Mr. Andre Collins; and President of the Amateur Athletics Federation in Anguilla, Mrs. Lorna Kentish-Rogers. They all spoke about the commitment of the late husband and wife couple, Mr. Ashley Brooks and Mrs. Doldena Brooks, to the annual event, which he created, and were delighted that their children were now carrying on their father’s legacy.
The family’s contribution was put into perspective by the eldest of the children, Mrs. Ellenita Harrigan: “Twenty-five years ago, my dad was only 47 years old when he made his commitment to the young people of this island,” she recalled, her voice breaking with emotion. “He was much younger than most of his children today. I am sure he did not realize the extent of his sponsorship, or his legacy, that is still impacting the physical and social development of the young people. Tomorrow, [Monday, March 11], if he had lived, he would have been 72 years.
“My mom supported my dad throughout all his endeavours, and she would have been right here with us today celebrating this milestone. May their souls rest in peace.
“The success of this race would not have been successful without the support of many persons from the Education Department, Sports Department, Principals, Parents, Teachers, Coaches, Police Officers, the Media and the Anguilla Amateur Athletic Association. Thank you very much. Without your yearly participation, and commitment, this race would not have been around for 25 years – nor would it have been the success it is today. I must also thank the staff of Ashley & Sons for their loyalty and coming out to assist us.”
Mrs. Harrigan added: “As a family, our desire is to continue our parents’ legacy and we look forward to your continued support. Our prayer is that this race continues from generation to generation, God willing.”
