MyChampsExperience — Simone Clarke-Cooper
What is your most memorable Champs experience?
Truth be told, it was so long ago (in the early to mid 90s), that I’d probably be lying if I chose a single one. I ran for both Immaculate, and then Wolmer’s, where I did sixth form. I think the Champs I remember the most was the year Immaculate won the award for being the best Corporate Area team for that year. May not have seemed like a big reason to celebrate to many, but we were so very proud! I really enjoyed the overall experience. Training was rough and nerves were always fraught come Champs time, but I wouldn’t change it for a thing.
How do you rate your old school’s chances of winning?
Well, by now you’ve learnt that I’m a past student of two schools. I think one is better known for their track and field prowess. I think Immaculate has a solid team, if not we couldn’t have secured a top-10 placement in last year’s event. Wolmer’s last year was literally one place ahead, so they too have a good team. I know both schools will do well again this year. As to who will come out on top, I won’t hazard a guess. I don’t want anyone to fall out of love with me, I’m cheering them both on, although ICHS has a special place in my heart because that’s where I spent most of my time.
Who do you think will win Champs and why?
For the girls – I think it’s going to be the same top three – Edwin Allen, Hydel and St Jago, toughing it out. Not sure if Hydel can unseat Edwin Allen this year, but I’ve seen them working steadily towards it, so that will be exciting to watch.
As for the boys – I know the ‘purple people’ (as I call them) are coming to pull out every single stop so C’Bar [Calabar] will have no reason to celebrate. I know JC [Jamaica College] will do well, but I think the battle is really between KC [Kingston College] and Calabar. I’m going to go out on a limb and say that Calabar will take it (now I’ve lost all my Fortis friends)!