GraceKennedy (GK), title sponsor of the Inter-secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA) Boys’ and Girls’ Athletics Championships (Champs), has announced that its investment will exceed $185 million this year.

In addition to the approximately $104 million in cash sponsorship, the group’s Grace Foods, Western Union and First Global brands will also invest an additional $81 million dollars into the local economy through their Champs executions.

Speaking at the Champs launch event held last week at the National Stadium, Group CEO of GraceKennedy Frank James, said, “This substantial investment underscores our belief in the power of sports to transform lives and communities. It’s a strategic investment in the future of Jamaica, fostering athletic excellence and building a stronger nation through the values instilled in these young athletes.”

This year’s Championships carries special significance for GK, as the group will take the opportunity to honour recently retired CEO Don Wehby at the event.

A steadfast supporter of Champs, Don Wehby has been instrumental in advancing youth development through sports. In recognition of his impact, GK is introducing the Don Wehby Sportsmanship Award.

This award, valued at $250,000, celebrates the values of sportsmanship that he passionately upholds, and which is so integral to Champs. It will be presented annually to the school of the most deserving male or female athlete, as determined in collaboration with ISSA.

To further celebrate Wehby’s impact on youth development, James also announced that the GraceKennedy Foundation will be awarding a new scholarship in his name. The scholarship, valued at $500,000, will be presented annually to a student who demonstrates strong academic performance and active participation in sports.

James said, “Don’s unwavering commitment to youth development, his passion for sports, and his firm belief in the transformative power of athletic competition have left an enduring legacy at GraceKennedy and within the wider Jamaican community. His dedication to excellence has not only shaped GraceKennedy’s success but has also inspired countless young athletes to reach for their dreams.”

GraceKennedy’s 2025 investment will also feature a special award for any school whose athlete breaks a sprint hurdles record. In celebration of the company’s 103rd anniversary and in recognition of Don Wehby’s achievements as a champion hurdler in the Class Three 100m hurdles, any student that sets a new record in the sprint hurdles will receive a prize of $103,000 for their school.

The 2025 staging of the ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys’ and Girls’ Athletics Championships will take place March 25 to 29 at the National Stadium in Kingston.