KINGSTON, Jamaica — The opening day of the prestigious ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys’ and Girls’ Athletics Championships witnessed a spectacular display of emerging talent in the 400-meter events. Athletes from Holmwood Technical High School established an early dominance, securing top positions in the preliminary heats held at the National Stadium on Tuesday.
In the Class 2 division, Annastacia Hall of Holmwood Technical delivered a commanding performance, clinching her heat with an impressive time of 54.56 seconds. She will be joined in Wednesday’s semi-finals by teammate Maddison Campbell, who secured her advancement with a time of 54.88 seconds.
The qualifying rounds revealed intense competition across schools. Shameika McLean of Foga Road High demonstrated remarkable speed with 54.78 seconds, while Kimberly Wright from Immaculate Conception followed closely at 55.36 seconds. The field of semi-finalists expanded to include Daniellia Dixon of William Knibb Memorial (55.47 seconds), Khaklila Lewis-Satchwell from Edwin Allen (55.54 seconds), and Hydel High’s Sashana Johnson (55.93 seconds).
The Class 3 category similarly showcased exceptional young talent, with Holmwood Technical’s Malya McLennon leading the qualifiers with a swift 56.02 seconds. Teammate Tianna Blair secured her semi-final position with 57.36 seconds. Additional qualifiers included Sha-Jay Davis from Convent of Mercy Alpha Academy (56.64 seconds), followed by Hydel High’s Shaneil Henry (56.70 seconds) and Tyecia McDonald (56.93 seconds). Tawauna Marston of Knox College also advanced with a competitive 56.88 seconds.
The championships continue to serve as a premier platform for Jamaica’s next generation of track stars, setting the stage for thrilling semi-final competitions.