Mona High School’s rising quarter-miler Kevin Bliss is ready to shake up the field in this evening’s Class One 400m final, as he eyes his first-ever medal at the ISSA/Boys’ and Girls’ Athletics Championships. Bliss secured his place in the final after clocking 47.23 seconds to finish second in his semi-final at the at the National Stadium.

The time ranks him sixth among the finalists. William Knibb Memorial’s’ Jabari Matheson holds the fastest time of 46.54 heading into this evening’s final.

Kingston College’s (KC) Tajh-Marques White (46.70), Excelsior High’s Kishawn Hoffman (46.76), defending Marchinho Rose (46.84) of KC and Omarie Williamson (46.90) of Holmwood Technical round of the top five.

Despite being an underdog, Bliss says he is filled with excitement and confidence ahead of the big race.

“I am feeling very excited because I have been working very hard for this moment,” said Bliss. “Every time that I come out here to compete, I was always at the back of the pack, but I just continued to work hard and never gave up because God always has a plan for me.”

The 18-year-old runner, the nephew of former national 100m hurdler Andrea Bliss, has been on a remarkable journey, steadily improving over the years. Once struggling to break into his school’s top five, he is now set to challenge for a podium finish on one of the biggest stages in school athletics.

“I am feeling very grateful because a couple of years ago, I wasn’t even in the top five at my school and even the girls were running faster than me,” he said. “So, I am feeling very good about this right now.”

With months of intense training behind him, Bliss noted he is well-prepared for the challenge ahead. He has drawn inspiration from his aunt, whom he said has been instrumental in guiding him, offering valuable advice on refining his technique and race execution.

“When I run, she will talk to me and tell me my mistakes and what I need to work on. It is not going to be easy, but I am prepared mentally and physically.”

He pointed out that he is determined to leave everything on the track in pursuit of his first medal at Champs in today’s final.

“I am feeling very good because I know that it is in my reach. I have been working nonstop and I am also confident because I believe God is going to make everything work out,” he said.

The final of the boys’ Class One 400m is set for 8:44 pm.

— Robert Bailey