The finals of the 2023 Chefette/Frosteez National Primary Schools Athletic Championship (NAPSAC) are under way.
NAPSAC chairman Janelle Denny gave introductory remarks and welcomed all dignitaries, including president of the International Olympic Committee Thomas Bach and Minister of Sports Charles Griffith.
Bach addressed the audience and encouraged the primary school athletes to continue their diligent training and participation in the sport.
“I hope you will enjoy a great day of competition here at NAPSAC, you will bring honour to your school and to your sport. If you’re doing well, enjoy it, enjoy it together with your friends,” he said.
“You can only go faster, stronger, higher if you stay together. Stay together with your entire community. If you follow this Olympic motto maybe one day we will see you at the Olympic Games. I’m looking forward to seeing some of the races.”
Bach presented an Olympic pin to the winner of the open boys’ high jump Tariq Boyce of St George Lions as well as the athletes in the first race of the day, the open girls’ 600m.
That race was won by Jendaya Burke of Christ Church Girls in 1 minute 56.73 seconds. Her teammate Safia Bernard placed second (1:57.68) and Jaida Scott of Hilda Skeene was third in 1:58.57
Next up was the open boys’ 800m which Emmanuel Augustin of Mount Tabor won in fine style in a time of 2 minutes 30.60 seconds. The silver medal went to Najarie Straughn of St Stephen’s Primary in 2:34.35, while Aiden Chase of Arthur Smith Primary claimed the third position with 2:35.38. (RW)
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