The ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys’ and Girls’ Athletics Championships, affectionately known as Champs, continues to be a cornerstone of Jamaica’s athletic heritage. The 2025 staging, which was contested from March 25 to 29 at the National Stadium again showcased the immense talent and dedication of our young athletes.

However, while we hasten to commend the organisers for their hard work and dedication in delivering a successful championship, we recognise that there were several unsavoury challenges which, at points, threatened the very integrity and spirit of the event.

Champs has been the breeding ground for Jamaica’s track and field excellence. It has unearthed and nurtured talents who have gone on to achieve global acclaim, reinforcing the nation’s reputation as a sprinting powerhouse.

Beyond the track, Champs fosters unity, school pride, and national identity, drawing thousands of spectators and creating an electrifying atmosphere that is uniquely Jamaican.

The 2025 edition was no exception. With a record participation of 118 boys’ teams and 117 girls’ teams, totalling approximately 2,500 athletes, the event was a testament to its growing appeal and significance.

Despite its rich legacy, there is a compelling need to elevate the marketing efforts surrounding Champs. We must admit to a sense of disappointment with the small number of spectators who were present in the National Stadium for the blue riband 100m finals on Wednesday. One would remember that the schedule was adjusted and the 100m final moved from Friday evening to Wednesday evening in an effort to encourage greater crowd support on the opening days of the championships.

It is fair to say that this objective has not been met, and Champs, for all its cultural and sporting significance, still struggles for support on its first three days. Organisers must implement strong, targeted marketing campaigns that highlight key matchups, celebrate athlete stories, and engage communities. Leveraging digital platforms, collaborating with media houses, and offering promotions can enhance visibility and attendance. Furthermore, addressing concerns about ticket pricing and accessibility will ensure that Champs remains an inclusive event for all Jamaicans.

Technical mishaps and questionable officiating decisions have also raised valid concerns that must be addressed to preserve the event’s integrity. The extraordinarily high number of false starts, inconsistency in the application of rules, and inexplicable reaction times from the starting block sensors suggest, or at least demand, the need for a thorough investigation into the calibration and performance of the equipment used, the officiating protocols, and transparency around these issues. If nothing else, this will both ensure the continued respect for the meet and bolster the confidence of spectators.

Champs remains an invaluable institution in Jamaica’s sporting landscape, celebrating youth talent and fostering national pride. However, to ensure its continued success and relevance, organisers must proactively address marketing shortcomings and technical challenges. By enhancing promotional efforts and committing to operational excellence, Champs can continue to inspire and unite Jamaicans for generations to come.