Members of the Bellefield High School team.
The just concluded 2024 ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls Athletic Championships (Champs) were a stage for triumph and glory but behind every victory on the field, there lay a tale of dedication, support, and the belief in the potential of young athletes.
At the forefront of this narrative stood the 'Future Champions' initiative, a collaborative effort between GraceKennedy Money Services (GKMS) and Western Union (WU), aimed at nurturing talent, providing equal opportunities, and promoting youth development through sports. With a generous donation of JMD$2.5 million spread across 14 schools—one per parish—'Future Champions' set the stage for greatness.
Among the stars of this initiative was the Sydney Pagon STEM Academy from St. Elizabeth. Their remarkable improvement over the previous year's performance was a testament to the impact of the initiative. With both their male and female teams increasing their points tally, Sydney Pagon STEM Academy was not just a school but a beacon of hope for young athletes. Luke Plummer's historic bronze medal in the Boys Class 3 800m marked a milestone for the school, igniting a flame of inspiration that would burn bright for years to come.
Not far behind was Herbert Morrison High from St. James, whose athletes displayed sheer determination and skill. Finishing 11th in the competition with 28 points, an improvement over the previous year, Herbert Morrison High showcased their prowess on the field. Santino Distin and Tavaine Stewart's bronze medals in the Boys Class 1 High Jump and Boys Class 2 100m respectively were a testament to their hard work and dedication.
Bellefield High from Manchester added to the tapestry of success with Rhodonna Prince's bronze medal in the girls Class 2 1500m. Their tally of 18 points spoke volumes about their talent and determination.
But perhaps the true essence of 'Future Champions' shone through the inspiring story of Rhianna Lewis from Rhodes Hall High. Despite facing adversity, Rhianna's courage to finish the 400m hurdles after a fall embodied the spirit of perseverance and determination that the initiative aimed to foster.
Grace Burnett, CEO of the GraceKennedy Financial Group and President and CEO of GKMS, beamed with pride as she reflected on the achievements of these young athletes. "The success of our 'Future Champions' at Champs 2024 is a testament to what can be achieved when we invest in our youth," she exclaimed. "These remarkable young athletes have shown that with the right support and opportunities, they can compete at the highest levels and excel."
The 'Future Champions' initiative not only enhanced the schools' athletic facilities and resources but also instilled a sense of pride and achievement among their students.
Edwin Allen second in Champions of America girls’ 4x800m as Union Catholic sets National Record
Edwin Allen had to settle for second position in the Championships of America high school girls’ 4x800m, as they were soundly beaten by New Jersey-based favourites Union Catholic in the final on day two of the 128th Penn Relays at the Franklin Field in Philadelphia on Friday.
Not only did Union Catholic defend their title, but the team of Jimmiea King, Peyton Hollis, Sophia Thompson, and Paige Sheppard did so in emphatic fashion, clocking a National Record of 8:41.20. They lowered the previous mark of 8:43.12 set in 2008 by Roosevelt.
Edwin Allen’s quartet of Tanesia Gardiner, Monique Stewart, Kevongaye Fowler, and Rickeisha Simms, gave a credible effort in second at 8:50.76, while Virginia-based South Lakes (8:50.8), were third.
The other Jamaican schools, Holmwood Technical (8:58.94) and Alphansus Davis (9:13.83), placed fifth and ninth respectively.
Hydel wins third Championship of America 4x400m title in a row at Penn Relays
Hydel High successfully defended their Championship of America 4x400m title on day two of the 128th Penn Relays at the Franklin Field in Philadelphia on Friday.
The quartet of Alliah Baker, Jody-Ann Daley, Nastassia Fletcher and Abigail Campbell combined to run 3:34.78 to win ahead of Bullis School (3:35.17) and Union Catholic (3:41.75).
Hydel captain Alliah Baker reacted to her second gold medal of the meet.
“I am not shocked but I’m very excited. This is my last year and I’m very happy to finish my last year with two gold medals,” she said.
Hydel have now won this event three straight times and five times in the last six years.
Hydel successfully defends High School Girls Championships of America 4x100m title
Hydel High successfully defended their High School Girls Championships of America 4x100m relay title, as Jamaican schools swept the podium on day two of the 128th Penn Relays at the Franklin Field in Philadelphia on Friday.
The team comprising Shemonique Hazel, Alliah Baker, Shania Myers and Jody-Ann Daley, clocked 44.71s in victory, as they fended off the challenge of Edwin Allen’s quartet Trezeguet Taylor, Theianna-Lee Terrelonge, Renecia Edwards and Jounee Armstrong of Edwin Allen, who clocked 44.96s. St Jago's team of Briana Campbell, Adora Campbell, Bryana Davidson and Quanna Walker, placed third in 45.14s.
Hydel’s captain Baker beamed with delight at the feat.
“We came out here to win and we executed we always say that we are one team, we are here for each other and so we just came out and delivered. We were confident, so we just told each other to stay calm and trust God,” she said shortly after the race.
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