RE: Supporting the Champion By Design Institute mission
July 27, 2003
To whom it may concern,
My name is Quincey Clark. I am a 2000 United States Olympian. Enrique Montiel and I have been friends since 1989. We met through our sport of wrestling. I grew up in the same city and part of town that Enrique grew up in. East San Diego neighborhoods are not the friendliest places for most. Enrique contacted me about a project he has been working on for several years intended to help make a positive difference in the lives of underprivileged people who come from conditions similar to the ones we grew up in.
I graduated from Lincoln Prep High School five years before the drive-by shooting of Willie James Jones. In June of 1994, two days after giving his commencement speech from my Alma Mater, Willie was murdered by a group of neighborhood kids. Willie’s death was a giant shock to our San Diego community. He was a dear friend of mine, more like my little brother. Willie was also a close friend of Enrique’s.
This common thread between the life of Enrique and I has brought us together to step up and unite to fight a cause we both believe must be won. Something must be done to have a real impact in improving our country’s underprivileged living environments. Willie James Jones, valedictorian, future medical doctor, potential Olympian, is proof that we must make change happen as quickly as possible.
I support with all my heart the concept of the Champion By Design Institute and its projects to help people develop into champions in all walks of life. I especially support the intention of the institute to include unique scholarship opportunities to needing individuals in the memory of our lost friend, Willie James Jones.
I believe the Champion By Design Institute, its research, and supporting projects are incredibly important for a great many number of reasons. I urge you to step up and become involved! Your support of CBDI in any way that you are capable of is incredibly appreciated. Thank you.
In your trust,
Quincey Clark
2000 United States Olympian
2004 United States Olympic Hopeful
Life Champion By Design
Original Letter of Support (PDF)