Former GraceKennedy Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Don Wehby has been hailed for his significant contribution to the growth of the ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys’ and Girls’ Athletics Championships.

Wehby, who was represented by his long-serving executive assistant Camile Barret, was honoured on Friday as an icon of the championships by GraceKennedy Money Services (GKMS)/Western Union during a special ceremony at the National Stadium.

The GKMS/WU ICON award honours individuals whose dedication and passion have left an enduring mark on Champs, inspiring future generations of athletes.

He becomes the third recipient of the award, joining former Calabar sprint star Daniel England and former Hollywood Technical star Anneisha McLaughlin-Whilby.

Wehby is a former champion at the high school championships, winning the class 3 100m hurdles for St. George’s College in 1978 while adding silver medals in the 110m hurdles and 400m hurdles in 1982.

He had a his 13-year stint as Grace CEO, which began in 2011, where the organisation pumped millions into the five-day staging of the event.

President and CEO of GraceKennedy Money Services Grace Burnett said: “Don Wehby’s vision and dedication have been instrumental in elevating Champs to international recognition. His belief in the power of youth and sport has not only transformed this event but has also inspired countless young athletes across Jamaica. We are honoured to celebrate his extraordinary contributions.”

Wehby, who retired as GraceKennedy’s Group CEO in February 2025, was bestowed the Order of Jamaica by the Government of Jamaica in 2024.