Injury-hit Calabar poised to win fifth boys' champs

A year ago, Calabar were overwhelming favourites to win their fourth title in a row at the Inter-Secondary School Sports Association GraceKennedy Boys and Girls' Athletic Championships by as many as 70 points.

In the end, the Michael Clarke-coached team just held on to win by a margin of 15.5 points over Kingston College.

KC had several injury problems. Top Class Two athlete Jhevaughn Matherson, who was the favourite for the sprint double, failed to contribute after suffering a hamstring injury in the semi-finals of the 200 metres.

Dontre Williams and Nathaniel Bann, who scored a quinella the previous year in the Class Two 400 metres final, and 400 metres record-holder Akeem Blomfield were also out.

Fast-forward a year, and Calabar is in position to win another Championships, with their powerful Class Two team expected to propel them to five wins in a row.

All season, led by their high-powered Class Two athletes, Calabar have looked awesome. Unlike last year, their main rival, Kingston College, along with Jamaica College and St Jago have shown that they will be more competitive.

Head coach Michael Clarke was cautious but hoping for another victory, despite injuries including that to Tyreke Wilson.

"We have had to make some adjustments, but nothing that will affect the team's chances in winning as we have good replacement for Tyreke (Wilson)," said Clarke.

Based on projections, Calabar should end up on 269 points, with their Class Two team expected to score a whopping 115 of those points.

Once again, it should be another good fight for Kingston College as they are expected to finish second, 19 points behind.

Jamaica College are expected to finish third on 200 points, while St Jago, with their strong middle-distance team, will finish fourth on 185 points.