GoodHeart | Former Holmwood athlete Cindy Rose continues running toward her dreams
Published:Saturday | November 22, 2025 | 12:07 AM
At 19, former Reggae Marathon participant Cindy Rose is learning how far passion, discipline, and faith can take her. Now a first-year student at Indian Hills Community College in the United States, she is pursuing a degree in arts and sciences while continuing to train and compete as a long-distance and cross-country runner. For Rose, each day is a lesson in balancing academics with athletic ambitions.
“Balancing schoolwork with training can be challenging,” she admitted. “There are times when I feel stretched thin between classes, assignments, and practice sessions; but I remind myself why I started. Running keeps me grounded and helps me stay focused on what matters. It pushes me to do my best in every area of my life.”
Rose’s journey began far from the fields of Iowa, in a lively household in rural Jamaica. She grew up in a large, loving family of 12 children, with her father working as a farmer and her mother managing the home.
“Growing up with so many siblings taught me the value of teamwork and patience. We encouraged one another in everything we did,” she told GoodHeart.
As a child, Rose explored many hobbies, from reading and watching movies to dancing with her siblings. Her true passion, however, emerged at Holmwood Technical High School, known for nurturing Jamaica’s young athletes. There, running started as a fun activity with friends, but as she improved and began competing, she realised it was something she wanted to pursue seriously.
Under the guidance of her coach, Dave Anderson, Rose and her teammates trained with purpose and commitment.
“Coach Anderson always encouraged us to push our limits. Our training sessions were intense, but they were filled with camaraderie. We would wake up early to run, focus on endurance, and motivate one another through every challenge. Those moments taught me the importance of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. Even now, I carry those lessons with me,” she explained.
While at Holmwood, Rose learned about the Reggae Marathon, one of Jamaica’s most celebrated running events, after her coach encouraged her to participate.
“I was still in high school when I ran my first race,and it was such an exciting experience,” she added. That experience would become a turning point in Cindy’s journey.
Her performance at the Reggae Marathon not only gave her a new sense of confidence, but also opened doors for her education and athletic growth.
FRUITFUL REWARD
“When I won, I received prize money that helped me support my education and also assist my family,” she recalled adding, “Our school also received laptop donations, as five of our athletes finished among the top performers. It was such a proud moment for all of us. It showed that our hard work had brought rewards not only for ourselves, but for our school community, as well.”
Rose highlights the impact the Reggae Marathon had on her, dubbing it a life-changing experience. “It gave me the motivation to believe in myself. It showed me that my dreams were possible if I stayed consistent and passionate.”
Her experiences as a young runner shaped her into the person she is today. Through early mornings, long runs, and the supportive cheers of her teammates, a foundation of resilience and gratitude was built. The experience taught her that success is birthed through passion and consistency.
She continues to train and compete while adjusting to life as a student-athlete abroad, approaching each day with quiet strength. Balancing school and training can feel like running two races at once, but she stays positive.
“I remind myself that both are helping me grow in different ways. My studies challenge me mentally, and running challenges me physically.”
Rose dreams of representing Jamaica in international competitions, hoping to inspire younger athletes just as her coaches and mentors inspired her.
“I hope my journey shows them that with hard work and faith, anything is possible,” she added
As she reflects on her journey so far, Rose’s gratitude is never-ending. “The Reggae Marathon gave me a foundation to build on,” she said. “It opened doors for my education and my running career. It gave me confidence and reminded me of the importance of giving back.”
“Thank you for believing in young athletes like me,” she concluded with a heartfelt message to the Reggae Marathon’s team, sponsors and donors. “Your kindness has changed lives. Because of your support, we have been given the chance to dream bigger, to grow, and to achieve. I am forever grateful for the opportunities you have created and the hope you continue to bring.”