Garfield McCook (left), founding father of the Jamaica Worldwide Independence Overseas Track Competitors with Dr Laxley Stephenson, Sharon Thompson, and Dr Donna Thompson, on the occasion’s launch in Lithona, Georgia in February.
March 10, 2025
Submissions for the fifth Jamaica Worldwide Independence Overseas Track Competitors (JIIFSC) have begun, with founder Garfield McCook optimistic that “an expanded advertising drive” will see a rise in entries.
The occasion’s finals are scheduled for July 25 in Georgia, the place it has been held since 2021. There have been seven contestants final yr, which was gained by Ernel Earlington and Doxology, his concord quartet.
“Entries have remained secure, however with an expanded advertising drive, we hope for an expanded entry of artistes. Incentives shall be a particular crowning of the 12 months 5 winner with US$8,000 plus a trophy; second place, $5,000 plus trophy and third place with $1000,” McCook advised Observer On-line. “The highest three shall be featured on JIIFSC Regals Vol 3 Album, underneath the auspices of VPAL Data, a subsidiary of VP Data.”
Toronto-based Lavie Lujah with Licensed Yardie, IRIE by Goddy Goddy out of New York and Ohio-based Leon “Letonick” Denton gained the JIIFSC in 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
The JIIFSC is predicated on the Pageant Track Competitors which has been held in Jamaica since 1966.
McCook, an Atlanta-based Jamaican businessman, began the competition as a platform for artistes within the Jamaican Diaspora to specific their patriotism.
He stated that he and his group are doing issues a bit in another way this yr.
“This being our fifth yr, we are going to recognise our ardent group of basis companions. We may have a shock worldwide artiste performing. Previous winners who should not getting into shall be performing,” McCook disclosed.
– Howard Campbell
