John Eyre, president of the ASAJ, stated that the event would target more than 600 swimmers, while launching the swim meet at the offices of the Sports Development Foundation yesterday.

The two-day competition will feature preparatory, primary, high school and university institutions. The University of Trinidad and Tobago will also be represented, for the second time.

"Mayberry is always committed to this meet, in terms of educating our young people in order to prepare themselves financially for the future," Eyre said.

"We have children of all ages and it is a wonderful idea to get the message out, both from an aquatics and a business point of view," he said.

The high school and university competitions will get under way on Friday, March 6, with an opening ceremony scheduled for 8:15 a.m., followed by the start of the competition at 8:30 a.m. The afternoon session begins at 1:30 p.m.

Defending boys' champions Campion College are expected to face stiff opposition from Wolmer's Boys this year, while Immaculate Conception High, the defending girls' champions, is expected to face a strong challenge from St Andrew High, who were 200 points behind them last year.

Defending champions

The University of the West Indies will be hot on the heels of the University of Trinidad and Tobago, who are the defending university champions.

Hillel Academy are the defending prep school champions.

Defending primary school champions Naggo Head Primary will not compete this year, so that will leave former champions Excelsior in the hot seat.

"The competition between schools is so intense, particularly in the preparatory and primary schools, it makes for an exciting competition. We look forward to an exciting two days of competition from that particular group," Eyre said.

The awards this year will include a combined overall champion prize for prep schools, and in the primary division, an overall high points winner.

Denise Williams, vice-president of marketing at Mayberry Invest-ments, is encouraging the public to support the meet.

"Preparing for a career as an athlete is very similar to preparing as an investor, in that it takes time, patience and dedication. We are very proud of the ASAJ, as this is an investment in our future and a contribution to nation building."

- Keisha Hill