The Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS) is hosting its 52^nd Annual Inter-House Track and Field Championships on 7^th and 8^th March, 2024.

The event commenced today with a march past from the ESHS school grounds, along the Fishlock Road onto the Blackburne Highway and ended at the A.O. Shirley Recreation Grounds with athletes and cheerleaders from four of the school’s houses, namely Lettsome, O’Neal, Flemming, and Carlisle.

Principal of ESHS, Ms. Vanessa Garraway welcomed everyone to celebrate the sports days with the ESHS family and said that this year’s sports days were in honour of Ms. Kirima Forbes. She said, “I am witness to the efforts put in by our teachers who have worked tirelessly to carry forward the tradition of these days every year guiding and motivating their students at every stage. Your dedication to making this event a success is commendable and your hard work will be displayed over these two days.”

Acting Chief Education Officer, Mrs. Orlandette Crabbe acknowledged everyone present and spoke of the importance of these days to the students and the Territory as the athletes that represent the Virgin Islands globally all got their start on the A.O. Shirley Recreation Grounds. She said, “Today we gather to witness the incredible talent, dedication and sportsmanship of our students as they compete in track and field and cheerleading. This is not just a competition but a celebration of sportsmanship and teamwork. Let us compete with respect for one another and uphold fairness throughout the event.”

Minister of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, Honourable Sharie B. de Castro encouraged the athletes to push themselves and use their opportunity to springboard into the success in their desired paths in life. She also thanked officials from across the public service and the community for supporting the event over the years. She said, “I just want to acknowledge O’Neal House, the defending champions. I was in the then Lincoln House Rockets when I was at the BVI High School. I have to rep them but I want to wish all houses much success, and thank you to the P. E. Department and the House Captains who have made today possible.”

She added, “I wish this event to be one of success and safety, and I officially declare the ESHS Inter-House Track and Field Competition in honour of Ms. Kirima Forbes officially opened. God bless you all.”

The public is encouraged to attend the events and support their favourite House by wearing House colours. The full video of the ESHS Inter-House Track and Field Competition opening ceremony can be viewed on the Government’s Facebook page at BVIGovernment.

The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports continues to provide high-quality educational services, as well as facilitate access to and participation in sports and recreation, in order to enrich the lives of all residents of these Virgin Islands.