Sagicor Foundation Jamaica has committed J$16 million towards the staging of the 41st JTA/Sagicor National Athletics Championship, reaffirming its longstanding commitment to youth development, education and nation-building through sport.

 The announcement was made during the official media launch for the championship on Tuesday, May 12, at the Jamaica Teachers’ Association Headquarters, where stakeholders outlined plans for this year’s event, scheduled for June 26 and 27, 2026. The championship is expected to attract more than 1,000 primary and all-age level students from across the island to represent their parishes, along with educators and spectators.

This year’s staging will also include a race for students with special needs, underscoring the championship’s commitment to inclusivity, equal opportunity and the celebration of athletic talent across all communities.

During the launch, Jamaican sprint sensation and the 2024 U20 world champion Shanoya Douglas was announced as patron for this year’s staging of the championship. Douglas, who has proudly represented Jamaica on the international stage, is recognised for her outstanding performances in sprint events and as a member of Jamaica’s successful relay programme. 

Organised in partnership with the Jamaica Teachers’ Association, the championship remains one of Jamaica’s premier platforms for student athletes and educators, fostering discipline, teamwork, healthy competition and national pride.

Director of Sagicor Foundation Jamaica and Chief Revenue Officer, Insurance at Sagicor Group Jamaica, Mark Chisholm, said, “The investment goes far beyond sport. It is an investment in opportunity, education, confidence and the future of Jamaica.”

He also added, “[Sagicor] is proud to continue providing five-year secondary scholarships for the Champion Boy and Champion Girl, because we believe excellence should be nurtured both on the track and in the classroom,” he added.

President of the Jamaica Teachers’ Association, Mark Malabver, welcomed the continued partnership and highlighted the significant role Sagicor has played in the championship’s growth and impact over the years.

“The longstanding relationship between the JTA and Sagicor has evolved beyond sponsorship into a meaningful investment in nation-building, youth development and educational advancement through sport,” he said.

The continued partnership between the Jamaica Teachers’ Association and Sagicor Foundation Jamaica reflects the importance of collaboration in advancing education, youth empowerment and community development in Jamaica.