#Champs2024: ‘I am not here to take control’— International track referee James Kelly aims to guide, not intimidate at Champs
KINGSTON, Jamaica—James Kelly, an international track referee currently officiating at the ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys’ and Girls’ Championships, has emphasised his role as a guide rather than an intimidator for fellow officials during the five-day event.
Hailing from St Kitts and Nevis, Kelly boasts the distinction of being one of the longest-serving accredited international officials in the Caribbean, having joined the cohort in 1999.
“It is always an honour for me to assist, and it’s important to understand that I am not here to take control but to ensure smooth operations,” Kelly said.
“I will defer to the decisions made collectively by the team, intervening only in cases of blatant mistakes, such as a false start indicated by the operatus.”
Kelly also outlined the protocol for handling protests, underscoring the importance of transparency.
“If there is a protest, we will allow the athlete to run under protest and issue red and white cards provided by World Athletics to signify this status to spectators,” he explained.
Despite this being his first time officiating at Champs, Kelly is no stranger to Jamaica, having attended CAST (now UTECH) from 1982 to 1985. He expressed gratitude for being chosen to be part of this prestigious event and anticipates a vibrant atmosphere at the championships.
“I am eager for the spirited competition and the unity it fosters. The intense rivalry keeps everyone engaged, especially witnessing young athletes competing against each other. High schools are where our future athletes emerge,” he asserted.