Jamaica’s iconic ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys’ and Girls’ Athletics Championships, commonly known as ‘Champs,’ is set to return to the National Stadium from March 24-28 with enhanced technical protocols following last year’s disruption by numerous false starts. The 115th edition will feature approximately 2,000 athletes representing 107 boys’ teams and 100 girls’ teams competing across 88 events over five days.
Meet Director Anthony Davis has confirmed comprehensive measures have been implemented to prevent a recurrence of the technical issues that plagued the 2025 championships, where nearly 70 false starts—particularly in sprint events—frustrated participants and raised questions about equipment reliability and officiating competence.
“We have done everything possible to ensure we don’t have a repeat,” Davis told media. “Whatever loopholes there may have been, we have taken steps to plug them. Our officials are prepared, we’ve had meetings since December, and the preparation has been good.”
Despite a slight reduction in participating schools, organizers note the significant participation of nearly 30 schools from Western Jamaica that are still recovering from October’s Hurricane Melissa. In a show of solidarity, the Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA) will donate proceeds from bleacher ticket sales during Day Two’s 100m finals—potentially reaching JMD $1 million—to support hurricane-affected western schools.
ISSA President Keith Wellington emphasized the event’s broader significance: “This year’s championship will be of far greater importance than usual as the country recovers. We’re particularly happy that severely impacted schools have made sacrifices to ensure their student-athletes can participate.”
The government has reinforced its support through the Sports Development Foundation’s JMD $4.7 million in grants. Sports Minister Olivia Grange affirmed the administration’s commitment: “Government has a responsibility to support our young people and sporting bodies. Seeing nearly 3,000 athletes participating displays remarkable courage and determination.”