Standard five pupil of Carapichaima RC School, Jerod M Griffith, copped top spot in the San Fernando Carnival Committee's Junior Calypso Monarch competition. The competition started around 10 am on Harris Promenade and featured 14 contestants from various schools.
Griffith, who is to write the Secondary Entrance Assessment (SEA) examination this year, delivered a melodious rendition of a calypso titled Our Children, Our Future. Jumping up excitedly, Griffith said he never expected to dethrone champion Rivaldo London of Fyzabad Presbyterian. He said, "This is spectacular. I knew I would come in a good position but I did not expect first place." He also thanked his mother, Joy Griffith, for her assistance.
Joy said she was elated over her son's victory. She said his message to save the nation's children was especially needed because of the ghastly treatment of T&T's children, many of whom are subjected to verbal, physical and sexual abuse. Joy said Griffith's competitors were of a high calibre and she was happy her son excelled.
Second place was Sherisse Collymore of the College of Science, Technology and Applied Arts of T&T (Costaatt) who sang The Game We play. Collymore wowed the audience with her lyrics, melody and stage presentation. Third place went to defending champion Rivaldo London who sang Parents and Ronaldo London of Fyzabad Secondary who sang I've Learnt to Rise. Fifth place was Nku Patrick of Naparima College who sang Role Models.
Kevin Calliste, grandson of Black Stalin gave a delightful rendition of his song Grandpa's Advice which was well received. Calliste sang about the need for unity of races and an appreciation of chutney and calypso. Another favourite contestant was Emily Allen of Barrackpore Secondary School, who sang De Powers.
The judges Maurice Alexander, Franklyn Phillip, Annette Hunte, Cuthbert Matthews, Winston Bramble and Telesford Henry judged the contestants on lyrics, melody, presentation and originality.