Lyssons Primary targets sixth national title at INSPORTS championships

Lyssons Primary will begin the defence of its INSPORTS National Primary Schools Athletics Championships crown on Thursday at the National Stadium, where the school will be chasing a sixth national title. At Wednesday’s launch, organisers also announced higher cash awards for schools finishing among the leading places.

The defending champions enter the national meet after again winning the INSPORTS Eastern Regional title, extending their hold on that crown to eight. Lyssons topped the eastern championship with 308.5 points, well clear of Half-Way-Tree Primary, which placed second on 149 points, a gap of 159.5 points.

A member of the Lyssons coaching staff said the school’s approach remains simple: “Once Lyssons participate in any form of event, our main aim is to win and take home that trophy.” The coach said the athletes and coaching team are ready, with the focus now on keeping the children physically and mentally settled for the national stage.

Eleven-year-old captain Milani Medley said the team’s preparation has continued through breaks and holidays. “We train non-stop,” she said, adding that she believes her teammates can push through and prove they deserve the championship.

Half-Way-Tree Primary sprinter Arianna Lewis, who was overall MVP at the eastern meet with 20.5 points, is also aiming to make an impact nationally. Lewis said she was not satisfied with her 100 metres time because of the wind speed, but was pleased with the 200 metres, where she lowered her personal best from 26.9 seconds to 26.56. She said she has confidence she can reach the finals.

Sport Minister Olivia Grange, who attended the launch, described the competition as “the cradle of track and field” and said the Government has a role in identifying, developing and promoting young talent.

Grange told TVJ Sports that prize money has been increased, with $650,000 now set for the champion school, $400,000 for second, $250,000 for third and $200,000 for fourth. The championships are scheduled to run from Thursday, May 28, to Saturday, May 30.