Olympic silver medalist Jamill Kelly spent this past weekend working with the Carrie Garth Wells Institute (CGWI) in Oklahoma City to help raise money for disadvantaged children and families throughout Oklahoma.
Kelly was one of the many stars on hand at Terrance Jackson’s All-Star Weekend last Thursday through Saturday.
Jackson started this event last year, and included Kelly in its inaugural year. The Olympic silver medalist was back this year, hanging with the likes of Clinton Portis, LaVar Arrington and Cato June.
“Last year I was contacted by a friend of mine from college about being involved with the charity and coming out to help them get the ball rolling. They wanted athletes from Oklahoma as well as around the country so of course I agreed, “Kelly said. “The whole experience was great and I hope to stay involved and hope other wrestlers can become involved too.”
The athletes visited the OU Medical Center Children’s Hospital on Friday morning and hosted an autograph session at Incredible Pizza on Friday afternoon before bowling and playing games with many of the area’s youth.
On Saturday, the athletes took part in a golf scramble and were invited to a fashion show that featured local designers.
Overall, the weekend raised a lot of money for the CGWI’s cause and the charity gained momentum for next year.
“It’s a great feeling to be in a position to be able to help this families, and kids, and help raise money to benefit people in the community. It also helps keep you very grounded and realize that you always have to count your blessings.”
But with all the fanfare over the NFL stars in Oklahoma City, Kelly was never overshadowed or left feeling out of place.
“It was just like hanging wit Mo (Lawal) and Daniel (Cormier), “Kelly said. “They took me in as if I was one of their boys. I had a really good time. They actually asked me some questions about wrestling. LaVar Arrington actually asked me how he could lose 10 lbs. As an athlete, I know and feel I’m one of the best in the world, so I never get awestruck. As I look at it, none of them can honestly say their second best in the world.”
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