JC’s coach Harrison expects another epic Champs battle

Jamaica College (JC) head coach Neil Harrison is anticipating that he will once again be involved in another close ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls' Athletics Championships (Champs), despite having lost the title last year by more than 70 points to Kingston College (KC).

Harrison has been involved in two very close Champs, as he was at the helm of KC in 2017 when the title was decided by the final event, the Open 4x400 metres relay, with Calabar eking out a narrow three-point victory over KC to retain their title.

Having departed KC for JC in 2018, Harrison won his first title as head coach in 2021. JC fought off the challenges of KC to win the prestigious Mortimer Geddes Trophy, this time by 15.5 points, after tallying 328.5 to KC's 313.

The veteran coach expects fans at Champs, which begins on Tuesday and ends next Saturday, will get another thriller, with the forecast being that JC and KC will once again be in another epic battle that could bring back memories of both 2017 and 2021.

According to Harrison, they are upbeat about their sojourn to Champs after good performances at the recent Carifta Trials.

"The team is in good spirits. Our last performance at Carifta Trials would have sparked some confidence, and I am hoping they will take not only the confidence but also improve on the performances in the championships," Harrison said in a recent interview.

He showed respect for his rivals, especially KC.

"Kingston College has a great team, and I enjoy the rivalry with great sportsmanship. It will not be easy for both schools, but I am optimistic.

"I have great respect not only for Kingston College and Calabar but for all the teams who will bring something to the table to make the Championships exciting," continued Harrison.

Quizzed about areas of concern, Harrison responded: "I will remain silent, but I guess all teams must have concerns as no one team is perfect.

"To the Jamaica College family, we appreciate the tremendous support, and we will give of our best, as only the best is good enough," Harrison said.