St. James’ Primary School to Host Athletics Relay Competition

The St. James’ Primary School is poised to ignite the sporting spirit of Nevis with its inaugural “Relay Rumble,” a dynamic road relay race slated for Friday, January 17th, at 1 PM. This ambitious event, envisioned as an annual highlight on the school’s calendar, aims to join the ranks of other successful inter-school athletic competitions on the island, such as the KIDS ATHLETICS program at JLPS, the Relay Fest at EPPS, and the Skipping Competition at St. Thomas’ Primary. The Relay Rumble promises an exhilarating display of athleticism and camaraderie, bringing together students and the wider community in a celebration of youth and sport. The anticipation surrounding the event is palpable, with organizers and participants alike eager to witness the unfolding of this inaugural competition.

The seeds of the Relay Rumble were sown by coaches Adrian Williams and Cileen Hendrickson of St. James’ Primary. Their vision for an inter-school relay race quickly gained traction with Headmistress Catherine Seabrookes-Wilkinson, who recognized its potential to foster healthy competition and school pride. With her full endorsement and the generous backing of numerous local businesses, the Relay Rumble transformed from concept to reality. The collaborative spirit underpinning the event extends beyond St. James’ Primary, with coaches from other participating schools contributing to the meticulous planning and organization. This collective effort reflects a shared commitment to enriching the sporting landscape of Nevis and providing young athletes with valuable opportunities to showcase their talents.

The organizers have meticulously crafted race routes tailored to the different age groups, ensuring both challenge and safety. The youngest participants, from Kindergarten to Grade Two, will embark on a shorter, contained route within the vicinity of St. James’ Primary, running through the nearby housing project before returning to the school. This carefully designed course allows the younger children to experience the thrill of competition in a manageable and supportive environment. Their participation lays the groundwork for future involvement in more demanding athletic pursuits, fostering a love for physical activity from an early age.

For Grades 3 and 4, the challenge escalates with a longer, more complex route. Starting at the ditch in Barnaby Village, they will navigate a course that winds between the apartments of the Medical University before rejoining the main road for the baton exchange en route back to the school. This route introduces a greater element of strategy and teamwork, as the runners must coordinate their efforts to ensure a smooth and efficient baton handover. The increased physical demands of this course will test their endurance and determination, pushing them to strive for their personal best.

The most demanding route is reserved for Grades 5 and 6, reflecting their advanced athletic abilities. Their race will commence at M&M Enterprises in Camps, a significant distance from the school. The first baton exchange will take place at Pastor Jones’ church, adding another layer of logistical complexity to the race. From there, the runners will continue along the main road back to St. James’ Primary. This longer, more strategic route demands not only physical prowess but also mental fortitude and effective communication among team members. The Grade 5 and 6 race promises to be a captivating spectacle of athleticism and teamwork.

The Relay Rumble’s structure ensures fair representation and fosters team spirit across all participating schools. Each school will field two boys and two girls in each age category, ensuring gender balance and promoting inclusivity. The strategic placement of baton exchange stations along the routes adds a tactical dimension to the race, requiring precise coordination and seamless handovers between runners. This element of teamwork not only elevates the excitement of the competition but also instills valuable lessons in collaboration and communication.

Headmistress Seabrookes-Wilkinson extends a warm invitation to the entire sporting community of Nevis, urging everyone to mark their calendars for this inaugural event. The Relay Rumble promises to be a vibrant showcase of athletic talent, teamwork, and school pride. The organizers anticipate a strong turnout from supporters, creating an electric atmosphere that will energize the young athletes. The event is poised to become a cherished tradition, fostering a spirit of healthy competition and community engagement for years to come. The Relay Rumble isn’t just a race; it’s a celebration of youth, athleticism, and the unifying power of sport.