Adam Vary
Updated on: October 9, 2024 1:02 am GMT
Love and Loss: Jett Kenny and Lily Brown’s Heartfelt Tribute at the Lifesaving World Championships
In a touching display of affection and remembrance, athlete Jett Kenny and his girlfriend Lily Brown turned heads during the Lifesaving World Championships this past Sunday on the Gold Coast. As Kenny showcased his impressive physique, the couple’s palpable connection underscored a poignant tribute to Kenny’s late sister, Jaimi, who passed away in 2020.
A Day at the Races
Jett Kenny, 30, participated in the Lifesaving World Championships, where he displayed his athleticism and dedication. After completing the race in a black wetsuit and pink singlet, he confidently stripped down to his budgie smugglers, revealing his muscular form to the cheers of onlookers. But it wasn’t just the competition that drew attention; Kenny’s affectionate moments with Brown, 25, highlighted their close bond.
As Kenny emerged from the waters, Brown beckoned him with a warm embrace and a kiss, emphasizing their support for each other. She donned a fitted grey shirt with mini bike shorts, paired with a cap and sunglasses, embodying a sporty and casual look. The couple shared light-hearted moments on the beach, with Brown appearing to playfully splash in the surf while waiting for her boyfriend to finish.
A Tribute to Jaimi
Beyond the demonstrations of love, Kenny revealed a deeply personal aspect of their appearance at the championships. The couple had taken a portion of Jaimi’s ashes with them while filming the latest season of “The Amazing Race Australia: Celebrity Edition.” This act serves as a cherished tribute started by Kenny’s mother, Olympian Lisa Curry, who had previously scattered Jaimi’s ashes at significant locations.
“Jaimi was with us the whole time,” Kenny shared with clarity, explaining that it was his mother’s idea to take a part of Jaimi wherever they traveled. “Having her in our backpacks meant she went to a few more places she’s never been before.” This sentiment encapsulated the way the couple chose to honor the memory of someone so dearly missed.
Processing Grief
Since Jaimi’s passing at the age of 33, following a long battle with alcoholism and an eating disorder, both Kenny and his mother have opened up about their coping mechanisms. While Lisa Curry frequently discusses her mental health journey on social media, Jett tends to maintain a more private approach. He articulated this divergence by noting, “How I would deal with the grief is different compared to how mum deals with it,” underscoring the personal nature of grief.
“Obviously, we have times where some days are harder than others, especially around birthdays, Easter, and Christmas,” he added, highlighting the ongoing nature of loss and the struggles that can accompany such significant dates.
Future Plans and Rumors
As the couple continues to grow in their relationship, recent speculation surrounding a potential pregnancy sparked intrigue among their followers. In May, rumors began circulating after Brown’s mother’s Instagram post hinted at baby preparations. However, both Kenny and Brown have since denied these claims, emphasizing their focus on celebrating their relationship in the present moment.
Kenny, whose father is renowned Ironman Grant Kenny, and Brown have developed a strong following since publicly announcing their relationship. The couple took to social media to share their affection in posts that declared, “To the future,” alongside sweet images of their time together, resonating with their audience and signaling their intent to share more moments of their journey.
Final Thoughts
The Lifesaving World Championships were more than just a showcase of talent for Jett Kenny; they served as a reminder of personal connections, love, and the ongoing healing process after loss. By honoring his sister’s memory in such a meaningful way, Kenny not only pays tribute but also teaches us all about the enduring bonds that shape our lives, even in the face of heartache.
If you or someone you know is feeling sad or having a hard time with mental health, there is help out there. You can call Lifeline at 13 11 14 or the Butterfly Foundation at 1800 ED HOPE for support.
