Custos Rotulorum of Trelawny, Hugh Gentles, has donated $50,000 to strengthen Holland High School’s athletics programme.
The presentation was made at the school during a recent function to celebrate the performance of the athletes in the Inter-Secondary Schools Association (ISSA)/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls’ Championships (Champs) held at the National Stadium in Kingston from March 24 to 28.
The Trelawny-based school made its debut at the championships with a team of 11 athletes, including team captain Johan Smythe, who set a Jamaican national junior indoor record in the 200 metres earlier this year, and standout sprinter Shanoya Douglas, who captured gold in the 100 metres with a personal best of 10.98 seconds and set a Class 1 meet record of 22.36 seconds in the 200 metres.
In his address, Custos Gentles commended the athletes for their discipline and perseverance, noting that Douglas’ achievements have brought pride to the institution and parish.
“Your achievements not only bring honour to Holland High but have also set a shining example for students across the parish, reminding us that with hard work and passion, excellence is within reach,” he said.
He also recognised the role of the school’s leadership and coaching staff in nurturing talent.
Encouraging team unity, Custos Gentles urged the athletes to continue supporting each other and celebrating their collective achievements.
Mr. Gentles, who is also General Manager of Glastonbury, a Trelawny-based food distribution company, noted that the contribution marks the beginning of support for the institution’s athletic development.
“We believe it is our civic and corporate duty to support this school. While one athlete (Shanoya Douglas) may have been the catalyst, this donation is intended to strengthen the entire athletics programme and create opportunities for more athletes to emerge,” he stated.
He noted that participation in sports builds character and can open pathways to scholarships and professional opportunities.
Principal of Holland High School, Dayle Evans, expressed gratitude to the athletics team and supporting community, describing the moment as historic for the institution.
“I am truly grateful to witness this milestone – the genesis of Holland High School’s participation in the Boys and Girls’ Championships,” the principal said.
He added that the achievement reflects a collective effort.
“Holland High continues to operate on the principle that it takes a village to raise a child, and today is a clear demonstration of that as we celebrate the accomplishments of our athletes,” he stated.
The principal expressed confidence that the school’s debut will usher in sustained success.
Edwin Allen High School in Clarendon won the girls’ title, and Jamaica College in St. Andrew won the boys’ title at this year’s Champs.
