Inspiring and Memorable performances at Sports Champs 2010

Inspiring and Memorable performances at Champs


July 27, 2010, Kingston, Jamaica

The performances at Sports Champs 2010 was inspiring, memorable and electrifying on and off the tracks. The event which was held at the St. Andrew High School for Girls, Kingston, Jamaica unfolded into a delighted array of talent, skill, confidence and resilience.

Racquel Faircloth gospel recording and performing artiste rendered an unforgettable moving and powerful performance. Faircloth performed the song “Why not trust God again”. Her inspiring and melodic rendition of the song she recently wrote was well received. Racquel’s ministry in song was moving and touched the hearts of athletes, officials, spectators. Even persons as far as Half Way Tree who could hear her unmistakable voice piecing the sound system and on the airwaves of Word FM.

The new gospel artiste who has been performing since 2008 hails from the Washington Boulevard SDA Church. She expressed delight at having the opportunity to perform live at Sports Champs for the first time. “When I was invited by my good friend Julie Barrett, I really did not know what to expect. But now that I am here, this has been a great experience for me. I see Sports Champs as another great opportunity to reach young people” she said. She also expressed the view that there is a great need for young gospel artistes to actively seek opportunities to minister to young people. “Yes, I see that there is a need for us to seek ways to reach young people. I think we can make an impact on their lives. They will see us as examples and hopefully take a stand for the Lord” she said.

The outstanding performances and Ministry was not just in songs. The Jubilee Dominion Dance Ministry from the Jubilee Worship Centre located in Spanish Town, St. Catherine also represented well. They did not disappoint the audience. They performed to “I Believe” by Yolanda Adams. The group lead by Kay Johnson gave a contemporary rendition of the song which was in keeping with the theme of Sports Champs “Believe…Reach…Achieve". The group which has been performing for the past year is hoping to make another date with Sports Champs in 2011.

The Ministry in music, live performances, and dance was truly a blessing for all persons attending and participating at Champs. The performances were a rich source of inspiration and strength given the social climate and the uncertainties and challenges which affected many persons. Many athletes were affected by the state of emergency and curfews in Kingston, St. Andrew and St. Catherine.

But another delighted performance was also in the making. Churches Cooperative Credit Union’s mascot, Thrifty Bee came buzzing. Thrifty Bee was a big hit with the children and adults alike. He danced and entertained well. The children surrounded the mascot. He showed them the latest dance moves to the songs of Jimmy Lalla, “Jump for Jesus”, “His name is Jesus” and “Blazin”. He was busy taking photographs with the athletes. Thrifty Bee also congratulated the athletes at the finish line.

But Thrifty Bee was not finished with champs. He was having so much fun he also decided to enter a race. This was going to be a race to see. Everyone thought that the other two athletes, Dean Jones and Garvin Grandison would surely beat the mascot. The Mascot was given a 50m head start. Then the starter set the race off to a clean start. The mascot tumbled and buzzed away. To everyone’s surprise as hard as the athletes tried they cold not catch Thrifty Bee. Thrifty Bee won his race and maybe became the first mascot to win a gold medal at a track meet. Dean Jones won silver and Garvin Grandison bronze medal.

It was a showcase of superb talent. It was a celebration of athletic brilliance. Believe it or not, Sports Champs 2010 was a blessing. The Opening Ceremony was chaired by Lisa-gaye Anderson, Board Secretary. She said that despite all the challenges this was the day to rejoice and celebrate because champs we indeed here. The Ceremony also featured the song ministry of Shena Gordon who sang the national anthem. Athletes marched confidently and excitedly to the music of “Chariots of Fire”. Chariots of Fire is the musical score by Greek electronic composer and artist Vangelis for the British film Chariots of Fire.

The athletes and officials were lead into the parade by the Chaplain, Rev. Ascott McCormack. Sports Champs was filled with excitement and loaded with fun and great performances. The day’s event was also fortified with a great worship session. Peta-gaye Dixon carried the Jamaican Flag. Executive Director of the Ministry, Rev. Dr. Hope McCormack welcomed all the athletes from various children’s homes, schools, service clubs and churches. Chairman of the Ministry Michael Schurton J.P. officially declared Sports Champs 2010 opened. He urged the athletes to liver the theme of Sports Champs 2010, “Believe…Reach.. Achieve” and also to realize the Olympic dream.

The interviews were great on both Word FM and CVM Television. The commentaries of the races were both comprehensive and exciting. The music from Jimmy Lalla, Judith Gayle and other artistes created an atmosphere of praise, worship, adoration and celebration. Sports Champs 2010 was the best ever in the decade old event. It was only by faith that it happened. Only by the mighty hand of the Lord made it possible. Sports Champs 2010 was a reality because we believed.