2009 World Championships in Athletics 200m finalist and Holmwood Technical past student, Anneisha McLaughlin, takes time out to read the Star yesterday.

"I'm so happy to be here. I haven't been here in a while and it feels really good to be back," beamed 2009 World Champion- ships in Athletics 200m finalist and former Holmwood Technical star athlete, Anneisha McLaughlin, on her return to the school that she led to three of their seven straight titles at the ISSA/ GraceKennedy Boys and Girls' Championships.

McLaughlin joined The Gleaner team in the cools hills of Manchester , as the 'Champs 100' tour stopped at the institution to continue its celebration of the centenary staging of what is considered by most to be the biggest meet for high school athletes in the world.

"The time I spent here (Holmwood) were some of the best years of my life. This school shaped me and made me into the person I am today, so I feel really special about this," said the blossoming international star.

The MVP Track Club sprinter, who took time out to voice her views that her alma mater will reclaim its title at the March 24-27 meet, was one of the features of the event, which also involved performances from top local acts and giveaways and presentations from sponsors GraceKennedy, VMBS and LIME.

During her presentation to the students, McLaughlin spoke about a number of issues such as discipline, commitment to hard work and the importance of balancing academics with sporting and other dreams. She also used the opportunity to energise the members of the track team ahead of the championships.

"Work hard to achieve your goals. At times things may not go the way you want them to but don't give up, just go back to the drawing board and continue to work towards your dreams," McLaughlin advised.

McLaughlin shared that she has been a constant source of encouragement for the team, and that she believes that they will once again deliver the goods at this year's meet.

"I haven't actually been here in a while but I speak to then from time to time at various meets and also during Champs," McLaughlin said.

The 'Champs 100' tour is being staged in partnership with VMBS, GraceKennedy, and LIME, in celebration of 100 years of local high-school athletics competition, and will continue tomorrow at St Jago High School.

Yohan Blake and Markino Buckley have been confirmed for the St Jago leg.

Angella Grandison-Reid, promotions and consumer services manager for GraceKennedy, presents a gift basket to principal of Holmwood Technical, Paul Bailey - Ian Allen photos

A LIME representative has the full attention of these young ladies during the Gleaner Champs 100 tour at Holmwood Technical yesterday.