Leaford Grant, the Kingston College (KC) head coach, described Saturday’s ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys’ Athletics Championships victory at the National Stadium as a great gift, as he signs off on his illustrious coaching career for now with a fitting farewell, leading the “Purples” to their 36th title.

It was Grant’s fifth title in the last six years, with the North Street-based team further cementing its dominance in Jamaican high school athletics. As the school celebrates its 100th anniversary, Grant’s final act on the sidelines was nothing short of historic.

“I couldn’t ask for anything more, especially this one. It’s a good retirement send-off,” Grant remarked with a smile after Saturday’s victory. “The Champs itself was kind of rough in a sense, or confusing, with the amount of false starts and all of that. But we tried to overcome them, and in the end, we came out victorious.”

KC, who started Saturday’s final day with 136.5 points, 21.5 points ahead of Calabar, tallied 293 points to win the Championships. Calabar High finished second with 229.25 points with Jamaica College (JC) rounding off the top three 207 points. St Jago High (135), Excelsior High (78), Wolmer’s Boys’ (66.75), Munro College (62.25), Edwin Allen High (58), St George’s College (49), and St Elizabeth Technical (47) completed the top 10.

Grant praised the resilience and determination of his athletes in the face of the challenges over the five days of competition.

“The youngsters always surprise me because when we needed a man [the] most, they stepped up. So never count KC out, as these youngsters will break your heart,” he added.

“The punters who kept saying that we are not going to do this or that well, for some reason, these boys take it personal when they reach the big stage. I don’t know where the energy comes from, but they always deliver,” Grant pointed out.

As he steps away from his role, Grant took a moment to express gratitude to those who played a pivotal role in his journey.

“I want to take this opportunity to thank the principal of the school, Mr Dave Myrie, for giving me the opportunity to serve. I really appreciate it. I could not have achieved what I have if he had not given me this chance. I also want to thank the old boys [former students], especially Mr Hardly Hewitt, and so many others. It has been a good feeling.”

Grant acknowledged his coaching staff for their unwavering commitment.

“I want to thank our coaches for the discipline they showed on the job, ensuring that the boys were fully prepared to compete in this special 100-year anniversary and in the year of my retirement. This is very special. I am leaving, but I will be in and out for a while.”

Kingston College team members celebrate with fans after winning the ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys’ Athletics Championships at the National Stadium on Saturday. (Photos: Garfield Robinson)