Keisha Hill, Staff Reporter

THE JAMAICA Independent Schools Association (JISA) Preparatory Schools track and field championships have received a boost as WISYNCO Group Limited, through its affiliate brand Bigga Soft Drinks, has raised the bar by sponsoring this year's competition to the tune of $1 million. The partnership between Bigga and the JISA was sealed in a launch of the competition yesterday at the Altamont Court Hotel, New Kingston.

The competition, in its 32nd year, is scheduled to take place from June 5-7 at the National Stadium. The event will start at 8:00 a.m on June 5 and 6 and culminate on Saturday, June 7.

Debutants

More than 57 preparatory schools are expected to participate in the competition including last year's defending champions Hydel Prep. Stiff competition is expected from Quest, Vaz, Wolmer's and Ardenne.

Browns Little People Prep and Praise Tab Christian Academy will make their debuts at this year's championships.

Cathy Rattray, chairman of the JISA sports committee, stated that with the improved performances of the athletes throughout the year, much is expected at the meet.

"The performances that we have seen have been good throughout the season and I think that the meet will be even more exciting," Rattray said. "Hopefully, we will see some of these young athletes representing Jamaica on the local and international circuits and even at the Olympic Games."

Coaching clinics

To adequately prepare the teams for the competition, JISA will be offering a series of clinics to students and their coaches beginning on Monday, May 19, through to Thursday, May 29.

The first clinic will be hosted at Sts Peter and Paul on May 19.

On May 21, the clinic will move to Liberty and on May 27, the clinic will be hosted at Stadium East.

Hillel Prep will be the final stop for the series on May 29. All clinics are scheduled to begin at 3:00 p.m.