The much-anticipated staging of the Fortis Pavilion Black Tie Banquet was held on Saturday, April 13, 2019 at the Spanish Court Hotel, Kingston. This glitzy event is part of the Founder's Week Celebrations. The purpose of the banquet is to raise funds to construct a Pavilion at the Melbourne Campus, and to recognize past students, coaches and administrators who have made sterling contributions to Kingston College, in particular, and Jamaica, in general, in the field of sports.
The Masters of Ceremonies, Mr. Rohan Gunter, Kingston College Old Boy (KCOB) and comedian and Ms. Stacy-Ann Delevante (Journalist), kept the patrons engaged and entertained throughout the event.
The highlight of the evening was the induction of Fortis/national football legend, Neville Oxford into the Fortis Pavilion Sports Hall of Fame. Davian Clarke (Olympian) was last year’s inaugural inductee.
Awards were also presented to the following for bringing pride and glory to Kingston College:
▪ Manning Cup Football Team - Winners of the 2018 ISSA/Digicel Manning Cup
▪ Under-16 Football Team - Winners of the 2018 ISSA/WATA Urban and All-island competitions
▪ Track & Field Team - Winners of the 2019 ISSA/Grace Kennedy Boys’ Championships
▪ Schools’ Challenge Quiz Team - Placed 2nd in the 50th season of the competition
Mr. Ian G. Wilkinson, QC, was the Guest Speaker. His speech was stimulating, humorous, and rich in content.
Notable attendees included Dave Myrie (Principal); Juliet Wilson (Vice Principal); Leaford Grant (Track and Field Coach); Ricardo Loney (Quiz Coach); Dr. Patrick Dallas, Immediate Past President (KCOBA Jamaica); Stewart Jacobs (President, KCPTA); Lindy Headley (KCOB and Olympian); The Hon. Mr. Justice David Batts (KCOB); Dr. Robert Wan, CD (KCOB and renowned Urologist); Dennis Johnson (Olympian); Chad Rattray (Head Boy); Blake Brown (Deputy Head Boy); Lowarn Martin (Captain, Quiz Team); teachers; Old Boys; and supporters.
Kingston Rock (formerly, To-Isis) had everyone rocking to the beat of some sweet reggae music. The group includes Renardo Lewis (KCOB). Patrick Dallas and Ian Wilkinson danced up a storm during Kingston Rock’s performance. They stole the show and brought patrons to their feet.
The talented vocalist, Andre Shepherd (KCOB), was a hit. He serenaded the ladies and had the audience begging for more. Dr. Garth “Shaka Pow” McDonald (KCOB) who was in attendance, gave an impromptu performance.
The Fashion Show was well received and brought the standard of the event to a higher level. It showcased swimwear, African wear and sartorially elegant evening wear. The gentlemen (in particular) enjoyed this segment.
Peter Lloyd (former KC Head Boy) brought the curtains down on a memorable evening of fine dining, laughter and entertainment.
Next year’s event has already been booked for Saturday, April 18. Save the date. Your fulsome support would be greatly appreciated as we work assiduously to ensure that Kingston College remains the standard by which all others are measured.
Fortis Then, Fortis Now, Fortis Forever!
Wayne O. Robertson