The much-anticipated Western Relays is facing a significant setback this year as it loses the support of its main title sponsor, Nestlé, through its Milo brand, ending a partnership that spanned 27 years.

This development comes after the premier one-day development track and field event was unable to return to the Montego Bay Sports Complex, which has faced ongoing issues regarding its track’s condition.

According to Meet Director Ray Harvey, the decision to move the event from its traditional venue in Catherine Hall to GC Foster College in Spanish Town in 2019, after the track at the Montego Bay Sports Complex was deemed unfit, has now led to the withdrawal of Milo’s sponsorship.

Speaking on Irie FM’s What’s the Score on Monday night, Harvey explained the circumstances surrounding the loss of corporate backing, acknowledging that the venue challenges played a significant role in the decision.

Despite the setback, the 46th staging of the Western Relays will still go ahead this Saturday at GC Foster College, although without the backing of the long-time sponsor. The event, which gets underway at 10 a.m. with the 400 meters hurdles, will feature top high school teams such as Kingston College, Calabar, Edwin Allen, Holmwood Technical, Excelsior, Herbert Morrison, Muschett High and Cornwall College. Additionally, top clubs and institutions, including MVP Track Club, Sprintec, and GC Foster College, are set to compete.

Two of Jamaica’s most outstanding junior athletes, Deandre Daley and Shanoya Douglas—both World Junior sprint relay gold medallists—will be honored at the meet for their remarkable achievements. The late, great sports journalist Hubert Lawrence will also be recognized as this year’s honoree, adding a special tribute to the event.