Martin Lyn, president of the Aquatic Sports Association of Jamaica (ASAJ), says the continued growth of the Mayberry All-Island Swim Meet speaks volumes of its role in unearthing and developing some of the country’s rising stars.

He also pointed to the significance of the ASAJ’s 25-year partnership with the investment firm in providing another platform on which swimmers can showcase their talent.

This year’s staging of the meet is scheduled for March 24 and 25 at the National Aquatic Centre.

Immaculate Conception and Campion College will be seeking to retain their respective girls’ and boys’ titles in high school action, while Hillel are expected to again top both sections of the preparatory competition. Meanwhile, Excelsior is the reigning primary schools champions.

“The important role that Mayberry Investment Limited plays in the growth of aquatics cannot be overstated, and the ASAJ is indeed proud to have such a valued partner for this prestigious meet which helps to develop young athletes in the sport. It has become one of the most anticipated on our calendar and also one of the biggest — and that in and of itself speaks to its contribution,” Lyn told the Jamaica Observer shortly after Wednesday’s launch at the National Aquatic Centre.

Some 523 swimmers are confirmed for high school action, with another 482 from the preparatory and primary schools as the entries surpassed last year’s figure of 713. Each swimmer can contest up to five events, including the relays.

“What we find is that we normally have swimmers that don’t represent a club, but through this meet they have the opportunity to achieve times that make them eligible to represent the island at regional and international events,” Lyn noted.

Okelia Parredon, Mayberry’s vice-president for sales and client services, pointed out that her company’s continued push for this flagship event which started in 1999 is a no-brainer. She believes it exemplifies the diversity of the country’s young swimmers.

“Mayberry has always championed the development of sport in Jamaica and we have always sought ways to establish and support alliances across the island. This meet is a testament to our commitment to bettering lives through sports,” Parredon said.

Meanwhile, marketing manager of title sponsor First Rock Group, Sable-joy McLaren spoke highly about the evolution of the event and how it has served to advance the island’s young people.

“The impact this event has had on our athletes is certainly admirable, and we are proud to be on board for a third year in a row,” McLaren declared.

IronRock and Lasco, through its iCool water brand, are sub-sponsors of the event.