Trackside thrills: Experience the rush of Champs

The ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls Championships, commonly referred to as Champs, stands out as a premier high school track and field event in Jamaica, celebrated for being one of the most competitive junior athletics meets in the world. For any enthusiast of track and field, attending this event is essential.

Held annually, usually in March, at Kingston's National Stadium, Champs features athletes aged 10 to 19 from various schools across Jamaica. Globally recognized, Champs is a lively showcase of Jamaican culture and athletic talent, where spectators can witness the rise of future stars who often excel on international platforms, including the Olympics.

Many legendary figures in Jamaican athletics have emerged from this competition, such as Usain Bolt, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Veronica Campbell-Brown, Donald Quarrie, Merlene Ottey, Asafa Powell, and Juliet Cuthbert.

Each year, the event attracts thousands of fans to the 35,000-seat National Stadium, creating an atmosphere that is truly unforgettable. Jamaicans living abroad and international sports fans travel to Jamaica annually to experience this spectacle. Those unable to attend in person often watch via live streams.

A photo feature in GQ magazine from 2017 stated: “You'd be better served to think of it as Jamaica's Super Bowl.” The article further noted that “it might be the best place in the world to find the next Fastest Human Alive.”

Jamaican athletes like Usain Bolt, who holds world records in the 100 meters, 200 meters, and 4 × 100 meters relay, along with Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and five-time world champion, affirm that Champs equips Jamaican athletes for global competition. They argue that this event gives them a competitive advantage when they transition to international meets.

 Additionally, an article from World Athletics quoted Fraser-Pryce as saying: “Being at the Olympics later on, I knew that I’ve already seen that kind of a crowd before and experienced that adrenaline. As professional athletes, we need adrenaline, but not too much of it.”

If you want to feel that excitement as a fan—whether you're a Jamaican returning home or just visiting—the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel and The Courtleigh Hotel & Suites are perfect bases for your adventure.

Both hotels provide excellent accommodations near the National Stadium. The Jamaica Pegasus boasts luxurious amenities such as an Olympic-sized pool, spa services, and fine dining options featuring local cuisine. Meanwhile, The Courtleigh is renowned for its warm atmosphere with personalized service and comfortable rooms ideal for unwinding after an exciting day.

Choosing either hotel guarantees you will be well-rested and ready to dive into the thrilling action of Champs. Additionally, both locations provide easy access to explore Kingston’s rich culture and lively nightlife before or after the events.

We encourage you to contact your hotel’s guest services for additional information about Champs. They will be delighted to assist in hiring transportation and helping you plan your excursions.