The Jamaica Independent Schools Association (JISA) in partnership with GraceKennedy Financial Group launched the 47th staging of its Prep Champs at the Ministry of Education’s head office last Friday (May 31).
Title sponsors GK General Insurance and GK Mutual Funds will contribute J$4 million towards the execution of the prep championships.
Speaking at the launch, Chaluk Richards, general manager of GK General Insurance, noted the importance of events of this nature to empower our youth with meaningful and life-changing activities that will build both mind and body alike.
Reiterating GK’s focus on sports, education, youth, and nation-building, Richards noted: Sports, as always, is a tried and proven way to build our youth across the world, with important life skills. By giving our young athletes, a platform to learn and apply these core life values at an early age, we are, by extension, creating a more productive, balanced, and healthier Jamaica.”
JISA president Tamar McKenzie citing the significance of the event in building our next generation of stars shared: “The Prep Champs for close to 50 years continue to inspire and motivate young athletes, fostering a culture of and a commitment to excellence and sportsmanship in education among our young athletes; this year will do that and more. It’s not just a competition, it’s a platform that nurtures talent.”
Next generation of track stars
Sharon Hunt, independent schools registrar, representing the Ministry of Education, revealed that this event is “an opportunity for students to shine.”
During the days of competition, it is expected that over 1,600 talented athletes, registered and competing from 45 schools across 8 parishes will vie for the top spot. In 2023, Hydel Group of Schools took home the prize while Mona Prep came in second place with Vaz Prep taking third.
The JISA Prep Champs, known for its strong communal support from parents, peers, and well-wishers, will attract an entry fee of $500 per day per student and $2,000 per day, per adult for the duration of the championships.
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