Jones taking a selfie with one of her many fans.
Olympic athlete Akela Jones (left) signing a ‘What Limits?’ shirt with the assistance of her sister Irecka Louis.
Akela Jones hits Bridgetown to meet fans
Sun, 09/18/2016 - 12:00am
Patrons in Bridgetown yesterday got a chance to rub shoulders with one of Barbados’ rising stars as 2016 Olympian Akela Jones took some time out to meet and greet some of her fans. Stationed on the ground floor of Cave Shepherd, the heptathlete signed autographs, posed for photos and, most importantly, shared words of inspiration to young, aspiring athletes.
Jones, who was assisted in the effort by her brother John Jones and sister Irecka Louis, also used the opportunity to distribute some shirts from her ‘What Limits?’ line.
Speaking to The Barbados Advocate she explained that she just wanted to take the time out to personally thank those who have been supporting her throughout her journey.
“I’m just here to meet my fans and meet everyone who has been supporting me and sending me love back at the Olympic Games and just let them know that it is a continued process and that we are going to the 2020 Olympics. We are going towards the Gold medal,” she said.
With several persons of all ages clamouring to get a signature on everything from ‘What Limits?’ shirts, to books and even the shirts they were currently wearing, Jones said that she was enjoying the experience in Bridgetown.
“Everybody has been passing by and recognising me and saying ‘Congratulations’ and ‘I’m proud of you’ and ‘You inspire me’ and I have just been trying to encourage the children to continue doing any sport – it doesn’t matter. Just continue to make Barbados proud.”
Although her stint at home was a short one, Jones decided to make the most of it before heading right back into the fray as she has her sights set on her next set of assignments.
“Actually, my break is over. I’m heading back to school to do my studies. I graduate in May next year in Criminology and then I start training. Indoor season and we have World Championships next year in London so I am definitely training towards those two,” she said. (MP)