KINGSTON, Jamaica – In a dazzling display of athleticism, Anastasia Richards of St. Elizabeth Technical secured a commanding victory in the girls’ Class Four long jump at the 115th ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys’ and Girls’ Athletics Championships. With a leap of 5.49m, Richards set a new personal best, marking a standout moment in the competition.
Richards, who had previously triumphed at the County of Cornwall Athletics Association (COCAA) Western High School Championships, took control early in the contest. Her opening jump set the tone, followed by two additional impressive jumps—5.27m and 5.30m—proving her dominance in the event. These consistent performances ensured her spot at the top of the leaderboard.
The battle for second place was fierce, with Edwin Allen’s Kemoya Campbell finishing just behind with a solid 5.21m. However, the real drama unfolded for the third-place spot, where Immaculate Conception High’s Sanique Watt narrowly defeated Jessica Francis of Alphansus Davis High. Watt’s second-best jump of 5.16m edged out Francis’ 5.15m, sealing her place on the podium.
Richards’ victory not only showcased her personal growth but also highlighted the fierce competition at this year’s championships, with athletes pushing their limits and setting new standards for future events.