‘Quality performances’ a prime goal for Youngster Goldsmith Classic - National Stadium, Jamaica College hosting events to ensure adequate time for competition

ONE of the most sought-after development meets on the JAAA calendar is the Youngster Goldsmith Classics, which will become the first meet at the National Stadium this season, when its 27th staging takes place on Saturday.

Meet director Raffic Shaw, who has been at the helm organising this meet for over 20 years, noted that there will be some changes at the meet.

"We have gone for more Open events, unlike previous years when entries in this area were restricted. We have also partnered with Jamaica College to have some field events at their venue, as they will host all female high jumps and throws," stated Shaw.

"We want to ensure that athletes are not rushed in completing their events so we can get quality performances, and we appreciate this gesture by Jamaica College," he added.

Many coaches have recently complained about the high cost for their athletes competing at various development meets, and he defended this.

"Keeping the meet inside the National Stadium comes at a high cost, as we want the athletes to compete at a quality venue ahead of the Boys' and Girls' Championships. This is a dress rehearsal for them before that championship," he explained.

"Rental for the stadium is $1.8 million, and we are in negotiations with SDF (Sports Development Foundation) to see if we can get a reduction," shared Shaw, who stated that their charges are around the same as those at other meets held on grass and dirt tracks.

He also spoke about possible rebates to teams.

"The organising committee, led by Mr Dave Myrie, is contemplating rebates to teams. This is something we will be looking at, and at the end of the meet we will decide what will happen and how we can help," he said.

"Having the steeplechase and pole vault also comes at a big cost, and besides paying for the venue we have to ensure that officials are paid stipends for running the meet. A big thanks to the JAAA for offering help by assisting with equipment," he continued.

According to Shaw, coaches love this meet.

"Coaches always look forward to this meet as athletes are given the chance to complete their full rounds, both in the field and on the track. This is the only meet where we have preliminary rounds and finals in the sprint hurdles in all classes for boys and girls," Shaw said.

He expects the usual big turnout of athletes on Saturday.

"Based on what I have seen and heard so far, we expect the usual large number of participants, as the top male and female high school teams will be present -- which is over 2,000 competitors," he said.