University of Technology f?tes Olympians

UNIVERSITY OF Technology (UTech)/Maximising Velocity and Power (MVP) athletes took to the campus on Old Hope Road in celebration of their Olympic achievements yesterday.

A small motorcade travelled from the university's main gate to the Alfred Sangster Auditorium.

Among those celebrated were Olympic gold medallists Shelly-Ann Fraser (100m) and Melaine Walker (400m hurdles), Asafa Powell, Nesta Carter and Michael Frater - members of the men's 4x100m record-breaking quartet, Shericka Williams, the 400m silver medallist; Markino Buckley, Andr? Wellington and 100m silver medallist Sherone Simpson.

Brigitte Foster-Hylton and head coach Stephen Francis were notable absentees from the motorcade and parade, which was led by Digicel's musical truck.

Greeted the stars

Hundreds of students, administrators and other staff members greeted the stars. As the truck slowly drove through the school, everyone stretched to touch and get autographs from their Olympic heroes.

At the auditorium, the athletes and the management team received trophies and gifts during a presentation ceremony.

Former prime minister and pro-chancellor of the UTech, Edward Seaga, Sports Minister Olivia 'Babsy' Grange and president of UTech Errol Morrison addressed the gathering.

Fraser delivered the vote of thanks and was brief and frank.

"Thanks to all of you who supported us and I hope you continue to stay with us even when the times get tough," Fraser said.