The South Lake Chamber of Commerce recently hosted its monthly breakfast, featuring a powerful keynote presentation by Damu Cherry-Mitchell, Vice President of Star Athletics and a former Olympian. Cherry-Mitchell’s story of perseverance and dedication captivated the audience, from her early days as a top-ranked 100-meter hurdler in high school to fulfilling her dream of competing in the 2008 Olympic Games. Her resilience, teamwork, and goal-setting message resonated strongly with the business and community leaders in attendance.
Damu Cherry-Mitchell’s journey began as a gymnast and track athlete in Florida, where she quickly gained recognition for her skills in the 100-meter hurdles. Her athletic prowess earned her a full scholarship to the University of South Florida, where she graduated Cum Laude with a degree in Physical Education/Exercise Science. Her time at USF also saw her breaking records, becoming an All-American, and actively participating in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., which helped her develop leadership skills and a commitment to community service.
Following her collegiate success, Cherry-Mitchell moved to Gainesville to train professionally, ultimately settling in Clermont in 2004. Her years of dedication and training paid off when she qualified for the 2008 Olympic team, reaching a career-high ranking of third in the world. Today, alongside her husband, Dennis Mitchell, she co-leads Star Athletics, a renowned Nike-sponsored track club that trains world-class athletes for the World Championships and Olympic Games.
In addition to Cherry-Mitchell’s inspiring keynote, the breakfast featured a variety of other important topics. Sean Parks and Timothee Sallin, co-CEO of Cherry Lake, addressed property bonds, while Parks provided an update on hurricane relief efforts in the area.
Kendal Anderson of The Crossing Church and Don Spivey of the First Baptist Church of Groveland were the event sponsors.
Clermont Fire Chief David Ezell discussed the critical need for more personnel in city departments, and David Scruggs of Firebase Home Inspections shared insights into local housing inspections.
As the breakfast concluded, attendees were reminded to mark their calendars for the upcoming “Taste of South Lake” on November 7. This annual event celebrates the talents of South Lake’s local restaurants and businesses.
