Oblique Seville heads eight JOA Olympic Solidarity scholarship awardees

World champion Oblique Seville has been named among eight athletes selected by the Jamaica Olympic Association for its Olympic Solidarity Scholarship Award, a programme aimed at helping competitors prepare for major assignments.

The track and field group also includes World Championship bronze medallist Brian Levell, World Championship sprint relay bronze medallist Akeem Blake, and multiple-time national high jump champion Lamara Distin.

Several recipients welcomed the award, describing it as encouragement at an important stage of their sporting careers. One athlete said the selection came as a surprise and would provide added motivation to pursue greater achievements. Another said the latest award marked a second scholarship, following a first in 2024 ahead of a debut Olympic appearance.

The remaining awardees are Olympic swimmer Sabrina Lyn, national record holder Colleen McKenzie, swimming standout Keheen Louza, and 2025 national surfer Elijah Beckford.

Another recipient said the backing offered hope because of the practical support being made available to the awardees. Beckford said he was overjoyed to see surfing acknowledged by the Olympic Committee, adding that the board's support would assist his personal ambitions and his wider aim of developing surfing in Jamaica and lifting its profile internationally.

The scholarship is intended to help athletes meet costs linked to preparation and competition, including nutrition, travel, medical care and other needs.

A Jamaica Olympic Association representative said the body has widened its support beyond helping athletes attend Games. The association has also placed focus on education, with athlete scholarships tied to academic achievement, and has introduced equipment grants to strengthen preparation before athletes compete in their respective events.