Belize overjoyed with first medal at Penn

The management and coaching staff of the Stann Creek Ecumenical College (SCEC), the only high school in Belize competing in the illustrious Penn Relays, at the University of Pennsylvania, in Philadelphia, have expressed profound delight over the school’s first medal at the relays.

Competing for their fourth year, SCEC’s boys’ team clocked 3 min. 46 sec. in their 4x400m heat on Saturday, April 27, placing second and, consequently, earning a silver medal, in the race that also involved eight other competitors.

“We’re grateful, even when we doubted ourselves,” SCEC Principal Ray Adolphus Lawrence, Sr. told a reception, later on that Saturday, for Belizean, Vincentian and Kittitian teams that competed in the Penn Relays Carnival, at the Calabash Restaurant and Lounge on Lancaster Avenue in Philadelphia.

“Join me for recognizing our young athletes,” he added. “To our people, don’t take this for granted. We want to thank our brothers and sisters.

“I was very happy for that history,” Lawrence continued. “There’s a buzz in Belize.”

SCEC Principal Ray Adolphus Lawrence, Sr. addresses reception for Belizean, Vincentian and Kittitian teams that competed in the Penn Relays Carnival, at the Calabash Restaurant and Lounge on Lancaster Avenue in Philadelphia. Photo by Nelson A. King

Head Coach Gary Francisco told Caribbean Life that he was “still trying to process and soaking in everything that took place Saturday morning.

“We actually had high hopes in the 4x100m,” he said, regretting that the boys’ flounder in the second and third legs in the 4x100m.

“On Saturday, we were focused on some type of redemption,” Francisco added. “What happened on Friday has to happen for them to understand a sense of urgency. All we were hearing was that the commentators were saying that we were getting some kind of recognition.

“This was not an easy battle coming all the way from Belize,” he continued.

Belizean athlete, with AH tag, at end of 4x400m heat, enabling his team to earn first medal (silver) at Penn Relays.Photo by Nelson A. King

In the 4x100m heat on Thursday, April 25, SCEC girls placed fifth among nine competitors; and, the next day, the boys were eight in the 4x100m heat, among similar competitors.

“We wouldn’t be here without Mr. James Cordice,” SCEC athlete Nakila McKenzie told the reception, referring to the coordinator of Belizean and Vincentian athletes competing in the Penn Relays. “We made our country proud.”

Earlier, Francisco told Caribbean Life that “participating in the Penn Relays is not just about competing; it is about realizing a dream and uncovering athletic gems in Belize.

“Year after year, we defy the odds and make our mark, demonstrating that talent knows no boundaries,” he said. “Our journey to the Penn Relays is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our athletes, coaches and supporters back home.”

However, while their passion and determination drive them forward, Franciso said they cannot ignore the challenges they face as a school in Southern Belize.

“Limited resources and minimal support often hinder our efforts to fully develop our athletic program,” he said. “As the head coach, I envision a future where our program thrives, where our athletes have access to top-notch training facilities, equipment and coaching.”

To achieve this vision, Franciso urged potential sponsors and supporters to join them in their mission.

“Your contribution can make a significant impact in the lives of these young athletes, providing them with opportunities they might never have dreamed of,” he said. “Together, we can empower the next generation of Belizean athletes and inspire hope within our community.”

Franciso expressed “heartfelt gratitude” to Vincentian-born Cordice and the Philadelphia-based Team SVG International, Inc. for their “unwavering support over the years”, stating that they have been “instrumental” in their journeys to the Penn Relays.

“From ensuring our meals to providing transportation and hospitality, they have gone above and beyond to make our experience unforgettable,” he said. “We are truly grateful for their generosity and kindness.”

Lawrence said that SCEC – located in Dangriga Town, Stann Creek District, Southern Belize – is “truly grateful to be afforded this opportunity to have our students engage in this wonderful experience.

“We sincerely thank Mr. James Cordice and SVG International Support, Inc. for their continued support and great hospitality,” he said.

“We are also grateful to our local sponsors, parents of the athletes, and the school’s management team for their support of initiatives like the Penn Relays that promote sports as an economic vehicle and developmental tool,” Lawrence added.