JLPS Triumphs at Inaugural Inter-Primary Road Relay Championship

The vibrant streets of St. James Parish, Nevis, came alive on Friday, January 17th, with the electrifying energy of the Interprimary Road Relay. This historic event, the brainchild of St. James’ Primary School, saw the participation of eight primary schools from across the island, showcasing the athletic prowess and competitive spirit of Nevis’s young generation. The participating schools, Montessori, Charlestown Primary, Ivor Walters Primary, St. Thomas’ Primary, Joycelyn Liburd Primary, Elizabeth Pemberton Primary, VOJN Primary, and the hosts, St. James’ Primary, brought together students, teachers, parents, and community members in a shared celebration of sportsmanship and youthful vigor. While Maude Cross Preparatory and Nevis Academy were unable to partake this year, the robust turnout from the eight competing schools ensured a thrilling and memorable event. The relay, a testament to the island’s commitment to fostering healthy competition and athletic development, drew enthusiastic spectators from all corners of Nevis, who lined the route to cheer on the young runners.

The relay races were divided into three categories based on grade levels, ensuring fair competition and highlighting the talent across different age groups. The kindergarten to Grade Two division saw a close contest, with Charlestown Primary ultimately securing the top spot. Ivor Walters Primary followed closely behind in second place, demonstrating impressive speed and teamwork, while Joycelyn Liburd Primary clinched third place, rounding out a podium finish filled with promising young athletes. The atmosphere crackled with excitement as each team gave their all, spurred on by the cheers of the crowd. This early display of athleticism underscored the importance of the relay in nurturing sporting talent from a young age.

The Grades 3 and 4 category brought another wave of exhilarating competition. Joycelyn Liburd Primary, building on the momentum of their younger peers, showcased their dominance by claiming the first-place position. Ivor Walters Primary once again delivered a strong performance, securing second place, proving their consistent strength across the different age groups. St. Thomas’ Primary, with a determined effort, captured the third-place position, adding another layer of excitement to the fiercely contested race. The energy of the athletes was palpable, reflecting their dedication and the hours of training that had led to this moment.

In the final races of the day, the Grades 5 and 6 category brought the Interprimary Road Relay to a thrilling climax. Joycelyn Liburd Primary, maintaining their exceptional form, completed a hat-trick of victories, claiming the first-place position and solidifying their status as the standout performers of the day. Their consistent success across all age groups was a testament to their comprehensive athletic program and the dedication of their young athletes. Charlestown Primary, displaying their resilience and competitive spirit, secured the second-place position, mirroring their success in the younger divisions. St. Thomas’ Primary, consistently strong throughout the competition, claimed third place, demonstrating the depth of their athletic talent. The final races were a true spectacle, encapsulating the spirit of the event and leaving the spectators exhilarated.

Immediately following the conclusion of the final race, Ms. Catherine Seabrookes-Wilkinson, Headmistress of St. James’ Primary School and the driving force behind the event, presided over the certificate presentation ceremony. Each participating school received a certificate of participation, a symbol of their contribution to the day’s success and a recognition of the efforts of every student who took part. This gesture reinforced the values of participation and sportsmanship, emphasizing that the true spirit of the event lay in the shared experience and the celebration of athleticism.

While the certificates were presented on the day, the athletes will receive their well-deserved medals later in the week. This anticipated award ceremony will further celebrate their achievements and serve as a tangible reminder of their hard work and dedication. The Interprimary Road Relay, more than just a race, is a community event that fosters camaraderie, promotes healthy competition, and showcases the budding athletic talent of Nevis’s youth. The resounding success of this year’s event promises an even more exciting and competitive relay in the years to come.