Jamaica’s Minister of Sport, Olivia Grange, has vowed that everything humanly possible will be done to ensure the resurfacing of the National Stadium track in Kingston is completed in time for two of the country's most critical athletics events—the ISSA GraceKennedy Boys and Girls Championships (March 25-29, 2025) and the Grand Slam Track meet (April 4-6, 2025).
Speaking with Sportsmax.TV at the Melbourne Cricket Club/Purewater 5K Run/Walk launch, Minister Grange remained firm in her commitment to having the track ready, even as industry experts warn that the timeline is extremely tight.
Meanwhile, Radio Jamaica Sports reported earlier this week that their sources indicate a contract for the resurfacing was signed with Rekortan over the weekend. However, Minister Grange did not confirm the specifics of the deal, stating that she would provide more details at a later time.
The resurfacing project comes at a crucial time, with the National Stadium set to host a series of major meets in the coming weeks, including the Gibson-McCook Relays, Jamaica’s Carifta Trials, Easter Championships, and Velocity Fest. The tight schedule has raised questions about whether there will be enough time to fully replace the track and secure World Athletics Class 1 certification.
Minister Grange, however, is unwavering in her confidence that the job will be completed on schedule.
"To be honest, I really don't want to preempt myself. I am putting together all the details and will either have a press conference or send out a release with the details. Just say that we’re just going to work to achieve having the track ready. That's as much as I can say at this time. We’re going to do absolutely anything and everything that is humanly possible."
Addressing concerns about the logistical feasibility of the project, she pointed out that she has already defied expectations by securing the necessary funding for both the track resurfacing and stadium lighting upgrades.
"There was a time when it was impossible to find the money for both the lights and the track. I found it, okay? So for me, nothing is impossible. There are 24 hours in a day. The only thing I can’t guarantee is an act of God, but we’re going to do everything that is humanly possible to make it happen."
With resurfacing work set to begin soon, several key athletics meets will be moved to Stadium East to accommodate the project. These events serve as crucial stepping stones for Jamaican athletes preparing for the 2025 international season, including the World Championships in Toyko in September.
However, Jamaica’s Gold Cup qualifier against St Vincent has been relocated to Sabina Park to avoid any disruptions.
Despite Minister Grange’s reassurances, industry experts warn that relaying the track in just one month poses a major logistical challenge. The process of lifting the old surface, replacing it, and obtaining certification typically requires more time. If any delays occur, it could put both Champs and Grand Slam Track at risk, two of Jamaica’s most significant track and field events.
For now, the nation watches and waits, hoping for weather favourable conditions and a smooth execution of the project. As Minister Grange optimistically put it:
"All I'm asking all of you to do is just pray—no rain," Minister Grange concluded.