Scores of excited youngsters from The Montessori Centre took to the tracks on Friday, February 6, at the Francis Baba Lastic Ground in Gros Islet, for the school’s annual meet. There was heated but friendly rivalry on display, and a number of exciting performances were celebrated, but none more so than Guava House repeating as champions.
Led by Under-9 boys’ champion Xzavier Sammy, Guava amassed 399 points, beating Mango (379) into second place, despite the dominance of Miles Andrew. A much-improved Soursop, featuring the likes of Zy Hilton, finished third with 350 points, and Sugar Apple (295) were fourth.
Sammy dominated the sprints in his division, winning the 60m in 9.40 seconds, while also copping gold medals in the 80m and 100m. He added a silver medal in the open 600m, two bronze medals in fun sports, as well as gold and silver from the relays.
Sugar Apple athlete, Emerald Alfred, moved up from the Under-11s to crush the competition in the Under-13 girls’ division. She ran 12.50 seconds to win the 80m, 27.60 for the 150m, and also won the 200m. Khaya Prospere was second in all three events, and went on to win the open 600m. Also in the Under-13 category, but among the boys, Hilton swept the sprints, taking the 80m, 150m, and 200m.
Similarly outstanding among the Under-11 boys’ was Miles Andrew of Mango. A national swimmer, he defeated Sammy in the open 600m after winning the 100m from Zayd Robinson, and the 150m from the schools’ chess champion Leon Nunez. Joseiah Monrose edged Liam Price for the 80m title, while Meghan Bartholomew won the 100m, 150m, and sack race for Under-11 girls.
TMC teacher Neeta Chowtie was full of praise for the students, teachers, and parents who made the day a success. With a school population of just over 200, the youngsters competed in sprints, middle-distance races, relays, and fun sports, including the sack race, three-legged race, and needle-and-thread.
“They have been wonderful. Everybody is engaged, and we have full parental support. At Montessori, it’s teamwork all the way. So, yes, we have a sports committee, but everybody pitches in, and we help each other. We have had several house meetings and practice sessions going on, and today everybody can be a winner,” said Chowtie.