Local Olympian Oshae Jones celebrated at One Government Center
The Olympian has been overwhelmed with support from the community.
TOLEDO, Ohio — This morning, local Olympian Oshae Jones was celebrated at One Government Center in downtown Toledo with a rally, attended by family, her closest friends and a group of proud Toledoans.
During today’s event, many speakers spoke of the triumphs and tribulations Jones has faced in such a short time, from a fire that almost destroyed everything she had to competing on the international stage at the Olympics.
Today was also an emotional day.
“I just want to say, from everybody, I love you, you put your life on the line: you were out there during COVID. You put your life on the line, and I don’t say thank you enough. You represent our family well, the city well. And I love you, I love your mom, the Blackshears and my whole object is to get you to be successful, to get out of boxing so you don’t have to get hit in the head. It hurts me to see you get hit, even though you beat the girl from China — I just want to put that out there,” said Roshawn Jones, the brother of Oshae Jones.
Many reminisced on Jones’ humble beginnings here in the glass city, from Soul City Boxing to a bronze medal win in the Olympics. I spoke to Jones today after having received a Key to the City, a proclamation from Toledo City Council, as well as a special honor from the state of Ohio.
“I don’t like asking for stuff, I don’t even like asking for a ride if I need a ride. I made a GoFundMe, I reached my goal and I appreciate everything I have and everything extra,” said Jones.
If you want to help Jones get back on her feet after the devastating fire, you can send monetary donations to Jerusalem Baptist Church Outreach. So far, Jones has received a $1,000 donation from Taylor Automotive, $2,000 from Tina Butts, who runs The Movement, a local nonprofit, as well as $500 from Toledo City Councilmember Cerssandra McPherson.
“God has a plan for you, never give up. There have been so many times I wanted to stay asleep and not go run, or skip this tournament, say I’m on my menstrual so I don’t have to fight. But no, the hard work will truly pay off — I’m living proof,” Jones added.
A parade will be held this Saturday, beginning at 2:15 p.m., starting at the corner of Dorr & Collingwood.
