We are ready for crowd - Champs organisers

André Lowe, Senior Staff Reporter

With larger crowds expected at the ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls' Championships at the National Stadium today and tomorrow, organisers are assuring the public that they are serious about the matter of security and that everything is in place as they get set to welcome the sometimes over-exuberant masses.

It is understood that close to $10 million has been spent towards the championships security arrangements with organisers leaving no stone unturned during this special centenary celebration.

"ISSA is determined as always to make this a safe, incident-free event," said Dr Walton Small, president of the Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA).

"We are ready and fully prepared for the larger crowds that are expected and we are confident that we have the proper systems and security plans in place to deal with it."

Police teams are being supported by a cadre of private security firms as organisers brace for the influx of fans.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Jervis Taylor has been placed in charge of the constabulary's operations at the venue while Colonel Ashley Jones is the meet's security chief.

"Everything is in place at this moment, this is nothing new to us, we are used to the crowds and everything else, so we are well prepared," said Jones.

"I just want to remind everyone to avoid trying to take prohibited items to the venue, we will not allow these."

In the meantime, Small made a plea to patrons to get to the venue on time and to avoid loitering outside the venue.

"Once you're inside, I implore you to use your assigned seat, individuals will be there to guide you along so that we will have full compliance," said Small.

According to Small, while the National Stadium's grandstand was sold out, there were still many bleachers tickets available.