Dream come true for William Knibb’s Seymore

William Knibb Memorial High’s rising talent, Sanjay Seymore, who closed his ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls’ Athletics Championships (Champs) campaign in style, says the opportunity to represent Jamaica on the regional stage is a dream come true.

Seymore is a member of the team representing Jamaica at the three-day Carifta Games which begins today in Grenada. The Trelawny-born Seymore is not only focused on being on top of the podium but also on improving his performance against the Caribbean’s best.

“I know I can come home with a gold medal competing in my first Carifta Games. It’s a wonderful feeling being here and on the team after four failed attempts to qualify,” expressed an excited and confident Seymore.

“The main objective is just to run a good race, enjoy myself and try to outdo my personal best because I definitely think I can,” added Seymore who will be participating in the 100 metres, 200m and 4x400m.

Seymore finished second in the 100m and returned to capture the Under-20 200m in 20.95 seconds, ahead of Deaqoun Maragh of Camperdown High (21.06) and Elijah Smikle of Jamaica College (21.16) on the final day of the Carifta Trials at the National Stadium on March 8.

Reflecting on his final year of high school competition, Seymore admitted it has been a challenging journey, marked by setbacks and disruptions, including the impact of Hurricane Melissa.

The 18-year-old had a golden end to his high school career, retaining the Class One boys’ 200m title at Champs crossing the line in 21.14 seconds to go ahead of Jamaica College’s Makaelan Woods who took silver and Kingston College’s Kyle Bodden who earned bronze.

“My final year in high school has been lovely so far. I had ups and downs, but I still came and pushed through,” said Seymore.

Despite setbacks, Seymore remains proud of what he has accomplished, describing his season as both rewarding and motivating as he transitions to the next level of his athletics career.

“I am glad for that because I got through the hurricane and stuff and I still came out and did better than I expected despite the setback,” added Seymore.

Seymore’s personal best times are 10.20 in the 100m and 20.75 over the 200m, both times were registered this season.

Looking ahead to the Carifta Games, Seymore acknowledged some stiffness and flexibility issues but notes that there is nothing significant that will hinder his performance.

“The aim is just to go out and execute as always. I just want to come out and represent my country and execute the best way I can. God took his time and fulfilled my dream of making myself, family, and school proud,” said Seymore.