In a show of its continued commitment to the development of track and field, D&G Malta has renewed its support for student athletes with a pledge of $200,000 in scholarships for standouts in the Digicel Grand Prix Athletics Championships.

The brand will award $25,000 to each champion boy and girl for the Western, Eastern, Central and Corporate Area Championships, which all fall under the Grand Prix series.

Romaine Beckford of Buff Bay High School and Tamera Howell of St Mary High School became the first 2018 Malta scholarship winners after they copped the titles of Champion Boy and Girl at the Eastern Championships on February 13.

“I want to tell Malta a big thank you. I never expected it. This prize will help me to prepare for Boys’ and Girls’ Champs, where I plan to dominate in all my events,” said 17-year-old Howell.

This is the second year that Malta has partnered with the Digicel Grand Prix to offer student scholarships. “We recognise that many student athletes need support and while we can’t provide everything they need, we can definitely help,” said Nathan Nelms, assistant brand manager for Stouts and Malta at Red Stripe. “These five scholarships to deserving participants will help advance them as both athletes and students.”

One recipient of last year’s Malta athletic scholarships, Kristoff Darby, lauded the beverage brand for its commitment to youth in sports. “It’s great when brands like Malta play their part in being socially responsible by giving back to the youth. Seeing them share their success with young people and the wider community is really a great thing,” commented Darby after receiving the endowment. The former Kingston College athlete is now at Johnson C Smith University in North Carolina on a scholarship and still competes in the middle distance races.

This year’s Digicel Grand Prix series is proving to be more competitive following a number of changes, including the addition of two new events in the 400m hurdles and the medley relay for girls and boys. Other marquee events will include the 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, long jump, high jump, discus, and 4x400m relay.