Shericka Jackson, Kishane Thompson and Co Hit by Major Meet Cancellation in Jamaica

The Queen's/Grace Jackson Development Meet, a key fixture on Jamaica’s track and field calendar, has been abruptly cancelled, organisers announced on Thursday.

The event was originally scheduled for January 31, and was a stepping stone for a series of athletes with Shericka Jackson, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, and other sprinters having competed there.

In a brief statement, the organising committee expressed its regret over the decision to scrap the event, which many athletes were looking forward to competing in.

"The Organising Committee for the Queen’s Grace Jackson Meet regrets to announce the cancellation of the 2026 event," the statement read.

"We apologise for the short notice and appreciate your understanding. We look forward to rebuilding and hosting a stronger event in 2027."

This cancellation is the latest blow to the 2026 athletics season, following the scrapping of several other prominent events.

It was recently confirmed that the Western Relays, slated for February 14, would not take place. Similarly, the Racers Grand Prix was called off earlier, with organisers citing significant funding challenges.

In a rare turn of events, the Central Hurdles Relays, which had also announced its cancellation, has been reinstated.

Organisers reversed their decision after learning that planned resurfacing work at the G.C. Foster College had been postponed. The meeting is now set to proceed on January 24.

First held in 2002, the Queen's/Grace Jackson meet has been an annual staple for 24 years. It honours the legacy of Grace Jackson, a distinguished alumna of The Queen's School who was part of the team that secured their sole Girls' Champs title in 1979.

Jackson went on to have a stellar international career, winning an Olympic silver medal in the 200m at the 1988 Seoul Games. A two-time Jamaican Sportswoman of the Year (1986, 1988), she formerly held the national records in both the 200m and 400m.