McAnnuff is a shining star for Hydel

Saturday, April 1, was All Fools Day in Jamaica when people do pranks, jokes and hoaxes, but on that day, it was no prank about Hydel High School's historical moment, as the Ferry-based institution lifted the ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls' Athletics Championships (Champs) girls' title for their first-ever success.

Since their achievement, new national girls' 100 metres record holder Alana Reid, who won the Class One sprint in 10.92 seconds, has frequently grabbed the spotlight.

In the background has been Hydel's captain Oneika McAnnuff, who magnificently spearheaded their success by leading in front, being victorious in the Open girls' 400 metres hurdle and second in the Class One 400 metres. She was also an integral part of their successful 4x100 metres relay team and a member of the second-place 4x400 metres relay team.

"The past year was, by far, my favourite season as a 'Hydelite'. I got personal best in the 100 metres, 200 metres, 400 metres and 400 metres hurdles, and to be the captain of a history-making team is a life-changing moment for me," McAnnuff told STAR Sports.

According to McAnnuff, she is still dumbstruck about their Champs' success.

"To be honest, I am still in shock from all that has happened. To have had such a talented group of young ladies is truly an honour. The most memorable moment for me was lifting the trophy with my team," she said.

She praised the Corey Bennett-led coaching staff.

"We have a really small yet competent coaching staff. To be part of Hydel's cast is to be a part of a family. Our head coach is like a father figure to all of us," she continued.

McAnuff, who will be starting a new chapter in her career this fall when she goes to university, lauded Hydel for preparing her for this challenge.

"Hydel has really prepared me for the world. It will be a new chapter for me, and I am excited yet nervous to take on that challenge, but I trust in God that I have made the right choice, and I can't wait to see what he has in store for me," said McAnnuff, who will be attending the University of Kentucky, where she will be majoring in Criminal Psychology.

Asked what has kept her going all these years, she responded: "I am a firm believer in the Jamaican proverb, 'rain caan fall every day, the sun affi come back'.

"Negativity is one of the greatest hurdles I have had to clear, but I have learnt to let negative comments motivate me, rather than bring me down. I have been at Hydel for seven years, and I have gotten at least two medals every year. So there is a lot of pressure to repeat or better what I did the previous year, but my coach Corey Bennett always find a way to make me excel," she stated.

For younger athletes who look up to her, McAnnuff advised: "Remember why you started, because days are going to come when you feel like giving up. Believe in your coach. They know what is best for you, and most importantly, build a strong relationship with God and put him first."

She takes motivation from Jamaica's World Championships 200 metres winner, Shericka Jackson.

"I really adore Shericka Jackson. She has such a beautiful persona. I have never seen her without a smile, and to step down from the 400 metres and now dominating the sprints is really amazing," said McAnuff, who enjoys reggae, dancehall and religious music.