Swim-run highlights St Andrew High sports day

The swim-run (aquathon) was the highlight on Friday's sports day at St Andrew High. This was the first time that a secondary school in Jamaica was hosting such an event.

The field comprised six athletes across varying age groups and consisted of a 150 metres swim and a 1000m run. It was coordinated by vice-president of the Jamaica Triathlon Association Alan Beckford, Carl Sharpe, and the sports department of St Andrew High.

Jamaica Triathlon Association president Leroy Cooke was on hand to witness this historic event and encouraged the girls to continue to strive for excellence, not only on the track, but in the classroom as well. He encouraged other schools to come on board and congratulated St Andrew High for setting the example for other schools. Cooke also hinted that his association is working on holding a high school championship.

Cooke stated that the Jamaica Triathlon Association is willing to provide technical support to any school that wishes to undertake a similar event. This may be an aquathon (swim-run), duathlon (bike-run) or a full triathlon swim, bike, and run). The swim does not have to take place in a pool. Schools close to the coast can utilise the ocean.

Llori Sharpe, the winners of Friday's event, will, along with Philip McCarthy, represent Jamaica in the Aquathlon and Triathlon at this year's Commonwealth Games in Australia.

Result

1. Llori Sharpe - 6 mins three seconds

2. Jada Campbell - 7:22

3. Jada Newell - 8:03

4. Zara Harris - 9:04

5. Lisane Martin - 9:42

6. Dariene Curry - 12:00