Big medal haul for Sts Peter and Paul

Robert Bailey, Gleaner Writer

With smiles all over their faces, members of the Sts Peter and Paul track and field team returned to the island from the Miami Classics to a rousing celebration at the Norman Manley International Airport last night.

The athletes, who captured 11 medals at the championships, were greeted with cheers from principal Karen Siyanbola, parents and well-wishers from the school.

Their medal haul included five gold, one silver and five bronze.

"It is absolutely amazing," said Siyanbola, with a huge smile on her face.

"... It was their first time going and to come back with such an achievement, we are extremely proud of them," she said.

Walker's champion boy

Giovanni Walker took home the overall Champion Boy award for winning four gold medals at the championships. Competing in the 11-12 age group, Walker won gold medals in the 100m, 200m, high jump and 4x100m relay.

Walker was overjoyed with his performance.

"I feel good because I worked very hard for it and I am glad that I won these gold medals," said the soft-spoken Walker. He added that he was not surprised he won so many medals.

"I worked hard in training to achieve this," said the 12-year-old, who is an admirer of Olympic triple gold medallist and world 100m and 200m record holder Usain Bolt.

Javaun Moore, assistant coach of the team, was voted the top relay coach for the tournament.

Olympian Bert Cameron, the head coach, said he was very impressed with his team's overall performance at the championships.

"I knew that once they competed with their age group, they would have done well, and that is what happened," said Cameron.

"They went there and they made Sts Peter and Paul very proud and so we are happy," Cameron said.

The athletes will now turn their attention to the National Prep Schools Championships, which will be held at the National Stadium June 16-18.