'You can do anything'
Published:Thursday | February 25, 2010 | 12:00 AM
André Lowe, Senior Staff Reporter
Berlin World Championships in Athletics 200m finalist Anneisha McLaughlin joined a slew of top performers, as The Gleaner 'Champs 100' tour rolled into Holmwood Technical High School in Manchester yesterday.
McLaughlin, who helped the team to three of the seven titles they have won in succession, addressed the need for hard work and balance towards a successful track career.
The MVP Track Club sprinter also implored the students, who had crammed inside the school's auditorium, to value their educational development and respect themselves and others.
Speaking about her message to the students, McLaughlin said: "I reminded them (students) that they can achieve anything they want to and that they should try to balance academics and sport because they both go hand in hand."
Major sponsors GraceKennedy treated the students and teachers to a number of tasty treats at their booth, while LIME sported its top handsets in an air-conditioned mobile unit, which was quite a hit with those present.
Victoria Mutual Building Society (VMBS) took the opportunity to introduce the students to its products and banking solutions, while COOYAH produced a number of specially designed Holmwood Champs 100 T-shirts for the students.
High-energy performances
The appreciative students were also treated to some high-energy performances from the likes of Coppershot sound system, Timbalee, Raine Seville, Duane Stephenson, Ginjah and the Shady Squad dancers.
The 'Champs 100' tour is being staged in partnership with GraceKennedy, VMBS and LIME in celebration of 100 years of local high school athletics competition, and will continue tomorrow at St Jago High School in St Catherine.
Yohan Blake and Markino Buckley have been confirmed for the St Jago leg.
World Championships 200m finalist Anneisha McLaughlin addresses students at her alma mater, Holmwood Technical High School, during The Gleaner Champs 100 Tour, at the Christiana, Manchester-based institution yesterday.
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Ian Allen/Photographer