As the excitement builds up for the grand finals of the Island Champs 2026 – Inter-Secondary Schools Track and Field Championships, major stakeholders from the Ministry of Education, Youth Development, and Sports gathered at the Daren Sammy Cricket Grounds [DSCG] players’ pavilion conference room to unveil plans for the event, set to take place on Sunday, March 15, starting at 1:00 p.m.
Attendees received a comprehensive update on event logistics and were reminded of the fierce competition among the schools and their athletes.
Cyrus Cepal, District Education Officer for District 1, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming finals, reflecting on the impressive performances displayed during five exhilarating days of qualifiers from March 9-12 and March 16-17.
Junior athletes across the U14, U16, U18, and U20 categories showcased their determination and talent.
“There’s an excitement being generated … we are excited about what is coming on Sunday; it is finally here,” Cepal declared. “This is the top annual event we look forward to every year,” he emphasized.
He highlighted the ongoing sporting rivalry among some of the island’s top secondary schools: Vieux Fort Comprehensive Secondary School (VFCSS) in the south, Saint Lucia Sports Academy (SLSA) in the north, Soufriere Comprehensive Secondary School (SCSS) in the west, and Micoud Secondary School (MSS) in the east, all vying for the championship title.
“We are ready; the students are prepared, and everything is in place, thanks to the educators, principals, and schools contributing to this grand finals day,” Cepal stated. He also underlined the athletes’ zeal and determination to represent their schools, setting the stage for a thrilling competition.
On finals day, a colorful March Pass will precede the races, with schools positioned in alphabetical order, featuring their cheerleaders and representatives showcasing their banners.
Cepal encouraged sports fans to come out to DSCG, describing it as “the Mecca event that everyone should attend to witness this incredible display.”
Current standings reveal that defending champions VFCSS Boys hold a narrow lead, with SLSA close behind in both the boys’ and girls’ divisions. Former champions St. Mary’s College (SMC) and St. Joseph Convent (SJC) are also contesting fiercely for the title.
Host Terry Finnistere noted that the ministry launched Island Champs to generate excitement, which has indeed been realized, with fierce competition expected from all top schools.
Sports Minister Kenson Casimir expressed his excitement about hosting Island Champs for the first time in the north, bringing the event to a populous community of approximately 90,000 residents. The finals are scheduled for a weekend to accommodate families and sports fans looking to attend.
With notable athletes like Julien Alfred, Levern Spencer, Jady Emmanuel, and Naomi London and others having emerged from the Island Champs, Casimir anticipates a fun and friendly environment featuring live musical entertainment.
Several ministers have committed to attending the event, and corporate partners have been invited to participate with booths.
Casimir declared, “I am thrilled that track and field is receiving this level of support as we continue to seek the next outstanding athlete in the ranks of Julien Alfred and others.”
Join us for what promises to be an unforgettable day of athletic excellence!