GraceKennedy Limited, the title sponsor of the ISSA GraceKennedy Boys and Girls Championships (Champs), has unveiled a series of new awards and incentives in honour of recently retired Group CEO Don Wehby, further cementing the company's commitment to the ISSA GraceKennedy Boys and Girls Championships (Champs). The announcements were made by new Group CEO Frank James at the official launch of Champs 2025 at Stadium East in Kingston on Wednesday night.
Among the initiatives introduced is the Don Wehby Sportsmanship Award, valued at JMD $250,000, which will be presented to the school of the most deserving male or female athlete. This award, developed in collaboration with ISSA, aims to celebrate the values of integrity, respect, and excellence that Wehby championed throughout his career.
Additionally, the Don Wehby Scholarship, valued at JMD$500,000, will be awarded to a student who demonstrates strong academic performance while actively participating in sports. This initiative underscores GraceKennedy’s belief in the balance between education and athletics in shaping future leaders. "Education and sports go hand in hand in shaping well-rounded individuals who will contribute to the future of our nation," James said, reinforcing the company's dedication to holistic development.
Frank James, Group CEO of GraceKennedy Limited during the launch of Champs 2025 at Stadium East Wednesday.
In celebration of GraceKennedy’s 103rd anniversary, the company has also introduced a special incentive for athletes competing in the sprint hurdles events. Any school whose athlete breaks a record in these events at Champs 2025 will receive a cash prize of JMD$103,000. The initiative is particularly meaningful as Wehby himself was a champion hurdler in the Class Three 100m hurdles during his time in school. "We hope this inspires our young hurdlers to push their limits and strive for greatness," James noted, highlighting the significance of the JMD $103,000 incentive for sprint hurdles records.
James paid tribute to Wehby’s legacy, acknowledging his unwavering commitment to youth development and sports. "We believe that sportsmanship is not just about playing fair. It is about respect, integrity, and the pursuit of excellence, both on and off the field," James emphasized, explaining the rationale behind the Don Wehby Sportsmanship Award.
"Don’s unwavering commitment to youth development, his passion for sports, and his firm belief in the transformative power of athletic competition have left an enduring legacy at GraceKennedy and within the wider Jamaican community," James said. "Don’s dedication to excellence has not only shaped GraceKennedy’s success but has also inspired countless young athletes to reach for their dreams," he stated.
Don Wehby
Since becoming the title sponsor of Champs in 2007, GraceKennedy Limited has played an instrumental role in the evolution of the prestigious high school track and field competition. For Champs 2025, the company has committed JMD$185 million in sponsorship, further solidifying its dedication to fostering athletic excellence in Jamaica. "This substantial investment underscores our belief in the power of sports to transform lives. It is a strategic investment in the future of Jamaica, fostering athletic excellence and building a stronger nation through the values instilled in these young athletes," James asserted.
GraceKennedy Brand Ambassadors Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and Hansle Parchment were also present for the occasion.
With a record-breaking 230 schools set to participate, Champs 2025 promises to be another thrilling showcase of Jamaica’s young athletic talent. The introduction of the Don Wehby awards and incentives will only add to the excitement, encouraging sportsmanship, academic excellence, and record-breaking performances on the track.
Main photo: Frank James and ISSA President Keith Wellington at the Champs 2025 launch at Stadium East on Wednesday.