In a significant development facilitated by a bilateral agreement between the governments of Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago, Kingston College (KC) and Hydel High, two top-tier Jamaican high school athletics teams, are poised to participate in the Trinidad and Tobago Secondary Schools Relays.
This collaboration has been made possible through joint efforts by the Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA) and the Trinidad and Tobago Secondary Schools Track and Field Association.
The prestigious event will take place at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain, featuring these two champion teams from Jamaica. Kingston College and Hydel High, renowned for their excellence in secondary school athletics, are slated to compete in the 4x100m, 4x200m, and 4x400m relay races on Thursday, January 18, 2024. The Jamaican athletes are scheduled to depart for Trinidad and Tobago on Tuesday, January 16, and will return after the competition on Friday, January 19.
ISSA expresses enthusiasm
In a press release, ISSA expressed its enthusiasm for the opportunity to not only showcase the remarkable athletic talents of Jamaican students but also contribute to the cause of regional integration and the development of track and field in the Caribbean. The Jamaican delegation will be led by ISSA President Keith Wellington, along with the support of Richard Thompson, Champs Chairman, and Nicole Brown, ISSA Executive Officer.
The Kingston College team boasts exceptional talents such as Daniel Clarke, Tajh-Marques White, Marvin Patterson, Marchino Rose, Jaquan Coke, Youri Clarke, Amal Glasgow, and Nicardo Clarke, under the coaching leadership of Leaford Grant and Richard Smith.
Hydel High’s team comprises standout athletes including Sashana Johnson, Nastassia Fletcher, Shania Myers, Calah McDonald, Alliah Baker, Aaliyah Mullings, Abigail Campbell, and Teixeira Johnson, guided by coaches Corey Bennett and Melaine Walker.
This ground-breaking initiative exemplifies the commitment of both governments and their respective athletic associations to promote not only athletic excellence but also unity and progress through sports within the Caribbean region. It represents a significant step towards strengthening the ties between the two nations through sporting exchanges and fostering greater cooperation in the field of athletics.
