ST JAMES, Jamaica — Esher Primary of Hanover will start the defence of their Western Primary Schools Athletic Championship when it gets underway Friday morning at Herbert Morrison Technical after a one-year break.

Twelve schools from the four western parishes, including newcomers Bogue Hill Primary and former champions Corinaldi Avenue Primary, who are returning after being absent for a few years, will take part in the two-day championships, which, according to the organisers, are set to showcase outstanding talents from the region.

Two years ago, when the event was held at Cornwall College, Esher Primary had topped the points tables with 284 points to win their first title and were followed by Howard Cooke Primary on 263.5 points, Barracks Road Primary on 205, Hague Primary on 134 and Duncans All-Age on 123, filling out the top five.

According to a press release from the organisers, the competition will be in four age groups “with events ranging from the high-speed 100m and 200m dashes to the endurance-testing 400m and 800m races, as well as the always-exciting 4x100m and 4x400m relays”.

“Patrons can expect young athletes to push their limits, showing off their speed, strength and teamwork in every event,” the organisers added.

Albert Ferguson, meet director and chairman of the organising committee, was quoted as saying, “This championship continues to serve as a vital stepping stone for young athletes in Jamaica, helping to instill discipline, encourage healthy competition and build the foundation for future success in sports.”

Six finals are scheduled to be completed on Friday — the 800m Open for both boys and girls, which will be the first events contested, as well as the long jumps for Classes One and Two in both genders.

Athletes in Classes One and Two will compete in the 100m, 200m, 400m, long jump and 4x100m relay, in their own age group, each over three rounds; Class Three participants will challenge each other in the 100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay, while Class Four competitors will display their speed in the 80m, 150m, and 4x100m relay, with all events held over two rounds.