RENEWED ENERGY is expected for the 13th staging of the Western Primary Schools Athletic Championship (WPSAC), which, organisers say, will bring spirited competition among young athletes across western Jamaica.
After a brief hiatus in 2024, owing to the unavailability of a suitable venue, the event will take place on Friday, June 13 and Saturday, June 14 at Herbert Morrison Technical High School in Montego Bay.
Speaking to The Gleaner, Albert Ferguson, meet director and chairman of the organising committee, expressed enthusiasm and gratitude for the championship’s return.
“This championship continues to serve as a vital stepping stone for young athletes in Jamaica, helping to instil discipline, encourage healthy competition, and build the foundation for future success in sports,” said Ferguson, who has led the Western Primary Invitational Athletic Committee since 2009.
“This year, they are not only competing for medals, but also making a statement of resilience, pride, and excellence,” added Ferguson.
The organisers are expecting more than 750 students across 36 events.
This year’s championship will feature 15 primary schools from the western parishes of Hanover, St James, Westmoreland, and Trelawny.
Some schools on board include Esher Primary School, the defending champions from Lucea, Hanover, Chetwood Memorial, Barracks Road, and Corinaldi Avenue. This year, the newest school on board is Bogue Hill Primary.
The meet will kick off with the 800 metres open for boys and girls in classes 1 and 2.
Athletes will compete across four age-goup categories, participating in a range of track and field events designed to test speed, strength, endurance, and teamwork.
Class 1 and Class 2 athletes will compete in the 100, 200, 400, 4x100 metres and long jump. Class 3 participants will challenge each other in the 100, 200, and 4x100 relay, while Class 4 competitors will display their speed in the 80, 150, and 4x100m relays.
Lisa Blake, coach of Esher Primary, said despite having a young team, they plan on doing their best to retain their title.
“The team has been faced with a number of injuries over the past two months. Our class is not as strong as the last championship. However, the children were looking forward to this event from last year,” Blake said.
Esher Primary will face strong opposition from three-time champions Corinaldi Avenue Primary, two-time champions Wakefield Primary School, and former champions Howard Cooke Primary School.
Meanwhile, Ferguson also commended the coaches who worked tirelessly to prepare their athletes for the event despite the year’s hiatus.
“We are extremely pleased to be able to host this year’s championship after last year’s last-minute cancellation. It was a difficult decision at the time, but the commitment of our sponsors and the continued dedication of our coaches and athletes have brought us back stronger.
“With the support of the community and stakeholders, the 2025 championship promises to be a vibrant celebration of youth, talent, and school spirit,” he said.
The event is sponsored by a coalition of partners, including Jamaica Public Service, the Sports Development Foundation, and the Taylor Art Media Awards.