A north-east runner is close to the finish line of achieving her American dream of a university sports scholarship in Texas.
Kayleigh Jarrett, 25, was first offered the opportunity to study at Midwestern States University through its track and field and cross-country running scheme in August 2015.
And after studying for months to pass the institution’s SAT tests in maths and English, spending countless hours cutting down her running times while studying at college and working a full-time job, Miss Jarrett was ready to go to the Lone Star State.
But in April last year, the 25-year-old, who is originally from Lossiemouth, suddenly found herself without a job, and had to shelve her plans.
However, a year on, Miss Jarrett is now preparing to cross the Atlantic once more and achieve her ambitions thanks to the support of her friends, family and kind strangers from all across the north-east and Moray who have donated through an online fundraiser.
She said: “All the support I’ve been given by everyone has been amazing, and a bit overwhelming.
“I was really nervous about putting it online, because I don’t really like asking for money, however as I explained in the fundraiser I managed to raise all the money last year but had to use it all for living expenses after I lost my job.
“Having people helping me out by donating money, showing me how to book flights and sort out my visa, has been incredible, and I’m really grateful.”
Miss Jarrett has now raised more than £1,400 of her £1,500 goal.
She explained that before she applied, the idea of taking up the opportunity of a scholarship through her love of running seemed impossible.
As she stated: “A few years ago, I was stuck in a rut in my life working in admin. It just wasn’t for me, but I always loved running.
“My friends told me to go for a scholarship – I thought there was no way I was good enough, I’ve seen the kind of girls that get them and they’re wild – but the coach that runs the cross-country and track team there came back and told me I could go for it.
“He gave me some times to aim for, I was running a 40-minute 10km at the time, and they were looking for a 39-minute one, which I managed to achieve, as well as passing my SATs which was really hard because I hadn’t done maths or English since 2009.
“Now, a year on, and with the support of everyone who has donated and helped me along the way, I’m ready to finally go to the US take on this new challenge.
“I hope I can do really well over there to show my appreciation, because there’s no way I would be able to do this without everyone’s support.”
To help donate to Miss Jarrett’s fundraiser, visit www.gofundme.com/kjs-big-american-dream
