World 100m champion Oblique Seville and silver medalist Christopher Taylor were celebrated by the Calabar Alumni Association Florida Chapter during its annual Green-and-Black Ness: Day Experience. The event highlighted their athletic achievements and ties to Calabar High School. Hundreds gathered to recognize Jamaican excellence in the diaspora.
Oblique Seville and Christopher Taylor Honored in South Florida
The Calabar Alumni Association Florida Chapter hosted its annual Green-and-Black Ness: Day Experience last weekend, centering on world 100m champion Oblique Seville and world silver medalist Christopher Taylor. Both athletes, alumni of Calabar High School, were welcomed by the Green and Black Army and the Jamaican diaspora in South Florida.
Festivities kicked off on Friday evening with an exclusive meet-and-greet. Hosted by chapter president Karl Thompson, the board of directors, and Jamaica’s Consul General to Miami, Oliver Mair, the event featured cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. A McLaren supercar was displayed, symbolizing speed in reference to Seville’s victory at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.
On Saturday, the Day Experience at Markham Park attracted hundreds of alumni, families, and track-and-field supporters. Attendees enjoyed authentic Jamaican cuisine, music, giveaways, and prizes, fostering cultural bonds.
Key moments included the presentation of awards sponsored by Victoria Mutual VM Building Society–Florida Representative Office. Seville received the inaugural Lion Heart Award for his discipline, resilience, and global achievement. Taylor was given the Lion Paw Award for his accomplishments and the pride he brings to Calabar and Jamaica.
During his acceptance, Seville shared details of his mental preparation for the World Championship 100m final and repeated his iconic line: “Put Respect Pon Mi Name.” Both athletes expressed gratitude in joint remarks: “We are truly humbled by the warmth and love shown to us this weekend. Calabar shaped who we are, and we are happy to do our part to support Calabar Alumni Florida’s fundraising efforts and the continued development of the next generation.”
Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, Antony Anderson, offered written support, stating that Seville’s title reflects “the strong athletic tradition of Calabar High School and the broader excellence associated with Jamaica,” and emphasizing investment in schools for future leadership.
Karl Thompson described the weekend as “more than an event — it was a statement,” celebrating Jamaican excellence, cultural pride, and diaspora strength. Attendees came from across Florida and neighboring states, marking the event as a historic gathering on U.S. soil.
