Entertainers share Champs memories

The ISSA/Grace Kennedy Boys and Girls' Championships now under way at the National Stadium has brought feelings of nostalgia to some of our favourite artistes. As they reminisce about previous stagings of the event, they were quite willing to share their favourite Champs memories.

For Macka Diamond, Champs was a way for her to get out of the house.

"That was the only time my mother would let me out of the house - to go to Champs. I went to Holy Childhood High, and that was the only time I could get to go to a party when after Champs party a gwaan," she said.

Dancehall artiste Pamputtae is a past student of Calabar Junior High School, so it came as no surprise that she supported Calabar High School at Champs.

Unfortunately, Champs was plagued with war and fights during her school days. However, she said that she is pleased that's no longer the case.

"Things change a lot because they're not really warring, no more stab up and fight anymore. And mi feel so good about dat, mi like dat. And mi realise seh di school dem come together now. When the Champs done yuh see everybody a walk a go home. If you lose, you just tek it and that's it," she said.

Over the years, the athletes have been keen on making fashion statements, and that is something Mr Vegas always looks out for. He said that his high school, Oberlin High, wasn't at Champs, so in later years, he threw his support behind Holmwood Technical High School because of the hairstyles the girls brought to the track.

"Mi just did love the Holmwood girls with dem colourful hair. That was my most enjoyable moment about Champs. The colourful hair just bought a vibe. They came with an image," he said.

And, as Champs kicks into high gear, gospel artiste Chozenn, who is a past student of the current girl champions Edwin Allen High School, and he is prophesying that his alma mater will win again.

"I remember when we ended Holmwood's 10-year dominance at Champs in 2014, and the entire Frankfield, Clarendon, was celebrating. And from dat Edwin Allen just deh on top, and wi going to be on top for the next five years. We going to win this Saturday," he said.