Over 600 entrants are registered to represent over 30 prep and primary schools islandwide in the Burger King YMCA Preparatory & Primary Schools Swimming Championships to be held at the National Aquatic Centre on Friday, from 8:30 am.

The event, the largest Under-12 development swim meet in Jamaica, will feature 52 timed final races including individual races and relays.

Sabrena McDonald Radcliffe, head of sales & marketing at Burger King, said: “Since 2000 we at Burger King have demonstrated our commitment as one of the largest corporate sponsors of youth aquatic sports development in partnership with the YMCA. With this meet we seek to create a launch pad through friendly competition, for youth to hone and assess skills which will also prove useful in other areas of their lives.”

Allan Marsh, chairperson, KYMCA, said: “The Kingston YMCA is extremely pleased and grateful for the over 20-year partnership with Burger King in hosting the annual YMCA/Burger King Preparatory and Primary Schools Swimming Championships. This competition has had a positive impact on the lives of thousands of Jamaican children with many of the past participants going to represent Jamaica in global competitions including the Olympics”.

Noting that the event is open to children between six and 12 years of age, Assistant Brand Manager Rashai Graham said, “Burger King continues to emphasise the importance of creating well rounded youth”.

This year, Burger King will invest over $2 million on the event to ensure that the swimmers, families, and supporters have a successful and enjoyable day.

Among the 52 races to be staged are the backstroke, freestyle, butterfly, and relays. Awards will be distributed on a points-based system with schools vying for championship trophies for the prep and primary divisions, including the $50,000 Burger King Vibe Check cash prize which goes to the school that displays the best team spirit and 15 years and over.

The event will be highlighted by the recognition to the coaches and their commitment to maintaining excellence within the aquatics sport.

McDonald Radcliffe said “this year we will salute the swim coaches who have helped with the development of Jamaica’s future stars of the pool”.

Spectators have not been left out and they will be treated to a programme of fun and games hosted by media personality Energizer Bunny Jenny Jenny, while the BK Mobile will be available with BK favourites to satisfy all BK cravings.