Gibson McCook preview: JC, KC set for big showdown in Class One 4x100m

WHEN the Class One Boys 4x100 metres, a Championship event at the Gibson McCook Relays, gets under way at 5:05 p.m on Saturday fans can expect a thrilling contest, as the event has developed into one of the most anticipated showdowns at the Gibson McCook Relays

Over the years, this sprint relay has produced some of the fastest high school times seen locally, with traditional powerhouses such as Calabar High School, Jamaica College, Excelsior High School and Kingston College consistently raising the bar.

Last year's final was a classic reminder of the event's quality. Three teams dipped below the 40-second barrier -- a rare occurrence at the high school level. Calabar stormed to victory in a scorching 39.60 seconds, while Jamaica College pushed them hard to finish second in 39.88. Excelsior were also inside 40 seconds with 39.99, underlining just how tight the margins were at the top.

The rivalry among these schools adds even more spice. Calabar have three members from last year's winning team, in Jamal Stephenson, Khamani Gordon and Dijon Swaine and despite not reporting to the start of the event in the finals at the recent Corporate Area Championships they could be saving for this moment.

Kingston College, perennial contenders, and after a sixth place finish last year, will be eager to get back on top and will be relying on the likes of Nyrone Wade and Kyle Bodden.

Excelsior have quietly assembled teams capable of upsetting the established order. And with their team which should include Riquelme Reid and Malik Nugent could be very dangerous.

Last Saturday at the Corporate Area Championships, Jamaica College fired an early warning shot with a brilliant 39.78 performance to defeat Kingston College, who clocked 40.07 for second. That performance signalled that they are in prime condition heading into this clash as the JC quartet led by Mackelan Woods and Malike Dennis look set to go much faster and will start favourites to go all the way on Saturday and a very low 39 seconds could be on the cards here.

TOP THREE

1. JC

Z. KC

3.EXCELSIOR