Paul Clarke, Star Writer

Western Bureau:

Green Island High School's first trip to the annual Penn Relays in Philadelphia, USA, has been further boosted by a substantial sponsorship from the Hanover Co-operative Credit Union.

The Michael McIntosh-coached eight-member team which flies out today is being aided to the tune of $250,000.

"It's a pleasure just going to the Penn Relays especially being the first from the parish, to participate in the Penn Relays and I am sure the athletes will do their best for the school, the parish and of course Jamaica," said McIntosh.

Team Bikkle and MILO are also major sponsors of Green Island in their debut at Penns, and coach McIntosh believes his athletes are capable of leaving an indelible mark on their first outing.

hard work

"This is a five-year programme and we have seen some real strong improvement over these years, so to be heading off to the Penn Relays is truly a testament of the hard work and commitment of the athletes," McIntosh said.

Marketing officer for Hanover Co-operative Credit Union, Salome Scarlett, said the company is committed to Green Island High School in their pursuit of excellence on the track, while noting that their interest goes way beyond the school.

"This credit union feels happy to be associated with Green Island High School and wishes them well in their historic first journey to the Penn Relays," Ms Scarlett said.

Team Green Island will be represented on track by Oshane Hylton, Romaine Bartlett, Gremeiko Whitelock, Nico Symister, team captain Chadwayne Vidal and Odail Todd. Team officials are Peter White (manager), Abegail Holmes (chaperone), coach McIntosh and Rushane Harris (asst coach).