Keen competition is expected when athletes from 79 primary schools compete in the semi-finals of the Pine Hill Dairy’s National Primary Schools’ Athletics Championship (NAPSAC) slated for Wednesday, March 18, at the National Stadium.
That is the word from Chairperson of the NAPSAC Organising Committee and Manager of the National Stadium, Michael Jules. He said: “We are setting up for a very interesting finals, and we will be looking to see which schools will produce the most finalists. It should be a great semi-finals and I want to encourage all to come out and support the athletes.”
Mr. Jules disclosed that close to 700 athletes would participate in the semi-finals, while only one of the 80 schools which took part in last week’s zonal meets would not be competing. He added that he expected “smooth sailing” on the day, especially since there would be reduced heats.
The events for the day include track and field, cricket ball throwing, long jump and high jump.
Adult tickets may be purchased from the National Sports Council, “Blenheim”, My Lord’s Hill, St. Michael; Barbados Union of Teachers, Merryhill, Welches, St. Michael; Cave Shepherd, Broad Street; CS Pharmacy, Lower Broad Street; Esso Service Station, Tweedside Road, St. Michael; and Emerald City Supermarket, Six Roads, St. Philip.
The primary schools leading in terms of points in the female category are: St. Albans (236), Bayley’s Primary (233), St. Catherine’s Primary (174), Hillaby/Turner’s Hall (161) and Grantley Prescod (159). Those in the male category are: Selah Primary (246.5), Good Shepherd Primary (240.5), All Saints Primary (194), Luther Thorne Primary (157.5) and Grantley Prescod (154).
Last year, Charles F. Broome won the girls’ title, while the now defunct Erdiston Primary placed second and Wilkie Cumberbatch was third. Wilkie Cumberbatch also took first place in the boys’ championship, Charles F. Broome came second, while West Terrace placed third.