GraceKennedy (GK), in partnership with the Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA), announced Daniel Clarke of Kingston College as the first recipient of the Don Wehby Sportsmanship Award.

The award was formally presented to Clarke during a brief ceremony at GraceKennedy Headquarters on Tuesday, in recognition of his exemplary display of grace and character at the 2025 ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys’ and Girls’ Athletics Championships (Champs).

A standout and favourite in the Class One 110m hurdles this year, Clarke captured the admiration of many Champs fans when, despite finishing behind his rival in a hotly contested race, he immediately congratulated the winner, a gesture that spoke volumes about his character and maturity.

Established ahead of Champs 2025 in honour of GK’s recently retired Group CEO, Don Wehby, a passionate advocate for youth development through sport, the Don Wehby Sportsmanship Award is valued at J$250,000 and will be awarded annually to the school of a deserving male or female athlete. It recognises student athletes who embody the principles of fairness, humility, and respect, values that reflect the true spirit of Champs.

Speaking at the presentation of the award, GK Group CEO Frank James said, “This award isn’t just about athletic prowess, it’s about character. It’s about what happens when the cameras might not be looking, but true sportsmanship shines through. At GraceKennedy, we hold firm to our core values – honesty, integrity, trust, commitment, humility, and respect. These are the principles that guide our business, and today, we celebrate an athlete who truly exemplifies them.”

In response, Clarke expressed his appreciation, stating, “It feels good to be the first Don Wehby Sportsmanship Awardee. It is an honour to be here. It has shown me that my sportsmanship has not gone unnoticed, and I am really grateful.”

Also in attendance at the presentation of the award were Kingston College Coach Kirk King, ISSA Competitions Officer Ewan Scott, Clarke’s family and friends, including his proud mom Patricia Clarke, and representatives from GraceKennedy.

Earlier this year, Clarke made headlines at the Jamaican Carifta Games Trials in March, clocking a personal best of 13.06 seconds in the 110m hurdles. He went on to claim silver at the 52nd Carifta Games in Trinidad and Tobago in April, finishing the under-20 110m hurdles in 13.21 seconds, a time that surpassed the previous meet record. He has since matriculated to Texas Tech University in the US, where he will pursue a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology starting in September.

GraceKennedy extends heartfelt congratulations to Daniel and wishes him continued success as he begins this exciting new chapter, both on and off the track.