World Aquatics appoints Stabilization Committee to oversee BVI Swimming Federation

February 20, 2026 by

World Aquatics has appointed a Stabilization Committee to run the British Virgin Islands Swimming Association (the “Federation”) with immediate effect, following a decision of the World Aquatics Bureau.
 
World Aquatics confirmed the Stabilization Committee to be established in accordance with Article 8 of the World Aquatics Constitution, which allows for such a measure under exceptional circumstances.
 
World Aquatics advised the Stabilization Committee comprises:
Mr. Ephraim Penn
Ms. Sabinah Clement
Ms. Rebecca Nockolds
 
Mandate and next steps
World Aquatics stated that effective immediately, the Stabilization Committee will run the Federation’s day-to-day operations, undertake the proper and necessary amendments to the Federation’s Constitution, and organise and conduct new elections within six (6) months.
 
World Aquatics also advised that affiliated athletes remain eligible to participate in international competitions across aquatic disciplines, and that the Stabilization Committee will manage athlete selection.

Filed Under: Swimming

ANOCES announces Panam Sports NOC Strengthening Programme

February 20, 2026 by

The Association of National Olympic Committees of the OECS (ANOCES) is pleased to announce that it has reached an agreement with Panam Sports in respect of the Panam Sports NOC Strengthening Programme effective 2026. 

ANOCES President, Ephraim Penn, has expressed his satisfaction with the work that his Executive has undertaken regarding the initiative that was presented to Panam Sports President, Mr. Neven Ilic, last year.
 
“We are confident that the initiative will contribute greatly to the benefit of the young people of the subregion. The programmes will help shape successive generations who will represent our members at the regional and international level multisport Games and individual sport Championships of the respective International Federations,” Penn said.
 
The three major Programmes are as follows:

Sports Competitions Programme
This programme supports the organization of sports competitions proposed by ANOCES for Athletics, 3 x 3 Basketball, Beach Volleyball, Swimming and Table Tennis.

Coaches Education Courses Programme
This programme is focused on coaches’ education and development through training courses.

Methodologists Support Programme
This programme is designed to strengthen the work of the sport methodologists who are already assigned, actively supporting the National Olympic Committees (NOCs) within ANOCES, ensuring that they also provide dedicated assistance during regional and continental competitions.
 
The Executive Committee of ANOCES has agreed the allocation of the grant funds from Panam Sports for the aforementioned sport competitions. These allocations will be disbursed to the host National Olympic Committee to defray their competition organisational expenses for athletes and officials including accommodation and meals, ground transportation, trophies and medals, meals for competition officials, venue preparation/rental, and other related costs.

The ANOCES Competitions to which the grant funds will be applied for 2026 are:

CompetitionDatesLocation
ANOECS 3 x 3 Basketball23 – 24 MayTortola, BVI
ANOECS Athletics Championships4 – 5 JulyBasseterre, St Kitts/Nevis
ANOECS Beach Volleyball10 – 12 JulyBasseterre, St Kitts/Nevis
ANOECS Swimming6 – 8 NovemberSt Lucia
ANOECS Table Tennis6 – 8 DecemberSt Lucia

ANOCES has expressed its most sincere gratitude to Panam Sports for the continued collaboration between the two organisations.
 

Filed Under: 3x3 basketball, ANOCES, BVI Olympic Committee, Ephraim Penn, Swimming, Table Tennis, Volleyball

BVIOC /Commonwealth Sport BVI hold 2025 AGM

December 19, 2025 by
National Federations represented that the 2025 BVIOC/Commonwealth Sport AGM

The British Virgin Islands Olympic Committee (BVIOC) / Commonwealth Sport BVI convened its combined 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) on December 17 at its offices in Road Reef Plaza. The assembly brought together its Executive Board and National Federations to review progress, present annual reports, and outline priorities for the continued development of sport in the Territory.
 
BVIOC President Ephraim Penn presented his annual report, highlighting key strategic initiatives under the BVIOC’s 2025–2028 Plan, which focuses on strengthening national sports structures, athlete development, safeguarding, infrastructure improvements and long-term sustainability.
 
Treasurer Mark Chapman delivered the financial report, outlining prudent financial management and ongoing investment aimed at supporting athletes and National Federations. As Chef de Mission for Glasgow 2026, Chapman shared an overview of the Commonwealth Games as well as of the Central American Caribbean (CAC) Games and Olympic Youth Games respectively taking place next summer in Glasgow, Scotland and Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic and in Dakar, Senegal in November 2026.
 
Safeguarding Officer Sophie Brewley-Massiah provided an update on safeguarding measures and initiatives designed to protect athlete welfare and promote safe sport environments across all disciplines.
 
2nd Vice President Ashley Kelly reported on progress in collaborative efforts with the Ministry of Health, particularly in relation to improving athlete access to wellness, rehabilitation and recovery facilities.
 
Member at Large Zebalon McLean shared updates on the Olympic Voices radio programme, which continues to amplify athlete stories and promote Olympic values throughout the Territory.
 
The AGM also featured updates from attending National Federations, including Archery, Athletics, Football, Rugby, Sailing, Squash, Surfing and Swimming, each outlining recent achievements, ongoing programmes and development plans.
 
The meeting reaffirmed the BVIOC’s commitment to fostering excellence, inclusion and athlete-centered development, while strengthening partnerships that support the growth of sport in the British Virgin Islands.

Filed Under: Archery, Ashley Kelly, Athletics, BVI Olympic Committee, BVIOC Athletes' Commission, Commonwealth Sport BVI, Football, Olympic Solidarity, Panam Sports, Rugby, Sailing, Squash, Surfing, Swimming

Historic Medals for BVI at ASU2025 Junior Pan American Games in Paraguay

August 23, 2025 by

The BVI Olympic Committee (BVIOC) proudly celebrates an historic milestone at the ASU2025 Junior Pan American Games in Asuncion, Paraguay, with sprinter Jaleel Croal securing the territory’s first-ever medals at a Junior Pan Am Games, and strong debut performances by teammates Wanyaé Belle and Khybah Dawson.
 
Croal, making his second appearance at the Junior Pan Am Games, etched his name into BVI sporting history by claiming bronze in the men’s 100m with a time of 10.16s and silver in the men’s 200m with a time of 20.39s. These achievements mark the BVI’s inaugural medal haul at the Junior Pan Am Games, underlining Croal’s status as one of the territory’s brightest track and field prospects.
 
On winning his medals, Croal said, “I was grateful just because I had a long season and am very elated and happy that I can show the young ones that anything is possible and to believe in themselves and shoot for the stars.”
 
Belle ran a non-advancing time of 10.72 in Heat 2 of the 100m semifinals and placed 5th in the 200m final (20.84s), showing promise as a rising talent on the sprint circuit.
 
In the field events, Dawson narrowly missed the podium, finishing 4th in the men’s long jump with a leap of 7.25m, just 0.12cm shy of a medal position. His performance signals promising potential for the BVI in horizontal jumps.
 
The BVI delegation included Chef de Mission Gloria Fahie, Coach Winston Potter, Physiotherapist Courtny Bascombe, Safeguarding Officer Sophie Brewley-Massiah and BVIOC President Ephraim Penn – who also serves on the Panam Sports Technical Commission and as President of the Association of National Olympic Committees of the Eastern Caribbean (ANOCES). President Penn had the honor of presenting the medals in the men’s 100m, 200m, and long jump events.
 
“These results are a proud moment for the BVI and a testament to the hard work, discipline, and determination of our athletes,” said President Penn. “Jaleel’s medal wins are historic for the Virgin Islands and serve as inspiration for the next generation. Wanyaé and Khybah also showcased tremendous talent on their debuts, signaling a bright future for BVI athletics.”
 
Chef de Mission Gloria Fahie added: “The athletes have shown outstanding discipline, focus, and resilience throughout the Games. Their performances not only highlight their individual talents but also showcase the strength and promise of BVI athletics on the regional and international stage. It has been an honor to lead this delegation and witness history being made.”
 
With the Games concluded, Croal, Belle, and Dawson will now return to their respective colleges to continue their athletic and academic pursuits.
 
About ASU2025
The Asunción 2025 Junior Pan American Games provide a platform for athletes aged 17–22 to gain elite competition experience and qualify for the Lima 2027 Pan Am Games. The event embodies unity, youth empowerment, and sportsmanship, with the official motto: “The Heart in the Games.”
 

Filed Under: Asuncion 2025 Pan American Junior Games, Athletics, BVI Olympic Committee, Ephraim Penn, Jaleel Croal, Khybah Daswon, PanAM Games, Panam Sports, Wanyae Belle Tagged With: , , , , ,

BVIOC announces full delegation for Asunción 2025 Junior Pan American Games

July 29, 2025 by

Adaejah Hodge is Official ASU2025 Brand Ambassador

(L-R) Wanyae Belle (100m & 200m), Jaleel Croal (100m & 200m) and Khybah Dawson (long jump) will represent the Virgin Islands (UK) at the  2nd Junior Pan American Games, taking place August 9–23, 2025 in Asunción, Paraguay. Photo credit: BVI Olympic Committee

The BVI Olympic Committee (BVIOC) announced the full delegation that will represent the Territory at the 2nd Junior Pan American Games, taking place August 9–23, 2025 in Asunción, Paraguay during a press briefing held at its offices on Monday, July 28.

This year, the BVI will compete in track and field, with three outstanding athletes carrying the Territory’s hopes: Jaleel Croal, Wanyae Belle, and Khybah Dawson.

Adding to the excitement, Adaejah Hodge, U20 World Champion in the 200m and silver medalist in the 100m, is one of seven official ASU2025 Brand Ambassadors by Panam Sports. Hodge is part of an elite group of athletes representing the campaign’s theme, “The Power of the New Generation”, to promote the upcoming Games.

Team BVI – Asunción 2025 Athletes

  • Jaleel Croal – 100m & 200m

A national record holder in the 200m with a blistering PB of 19.95, Jaleel is one of the fastest sprinters in the Caribbean U23 category. He placed 5th in the finals at the previous Games in Cali 2021 and is a strong medal contender this year.

  • Wanyae Belle – 100m & 200m

A rising sprinter known for his explosive starts and consistent times, Wanyae will make his junior Games debut in both short sprints alongside teammate Jaleel.

  • Khybah Dawson – Men’s Long Jump

A specialist in the field events, Khybah is expected to make a strong showing in the men’s long jump. His recent performances in regional meets have marked him as a serious podium threat.

“This is one of the strongest youth teams we’ve fielded,” said Ephraim Penn, President of the BVIOC. “Our athletes have demonstrated world-class ability and extraordinary dedication. Their performances on the regional and global stage prove that the BVI has talent worthy of the highest platforms. We are also proud to see Adaejah honored as a continental ambassador – a testament to her hard work and her leadership as a role model.”

Following an overview of the achievements of the team, BVI Athletics Association (BVIAA) President Steve Augustine concluded with words of support: “Our athletes have been diligently preparing for this moment, and we are extremely proud of their development. Jaleel, Wanyae, and Khybah all represent the future of BVI athletics, and Adaejah continues to be a shining light and leader in the region. We’re excited to support them every step of the way.”

The team, which departs the Territory on August 14, will be accompanied by Chef de Mission, Ms. Gloria Fahie, Safeguarding / Welfare Officer and Deputy Chef, Ms Sophia Brewley-Massiah, Coach Winston Potter, Physiotherapist, Courtney Bascombe as well as BVIOC President Ephraim Penn, who will attend also in his capacity as a member of the Panam Sports Technical Commission, and Secretary General Lloyd Black, a member of the Panam Sports Finance and Audit Commission.

Speaking at the press briefing, the athletes expressed their thoughts on attending the Games.

“It’s an honor to represent the BVI on a stage like this. My goal is to build on my momentum and put the flag on the podium. Every race is a chance to inspire the next generation,” said Croal.

“This is a dream come true. I’ve worked hard for this moment and I’m ready to compete against the best from the Americas. I’ll give it everything I’ve got,” stated Belle.

“Representing the Territory in the long jump is a huge responsibility. I’m focused and confident. I want to show the world what BVI athletes are capable of,” said Dawson.

On her selection as an ANU2025 Ambassador, Hodge said,
“Being chosen as an ambassador is a big deal – not just for me but for young athletes from small nations. I want to inspire others to believe that with talent and perseverance, anything is possible.”

Competition Schedule (Asunción Time/BVI Time)

• August 18, 6:00 PM / 5:00 PM – 100m Semi-Finals (Croal, Belle)

• August 19, 6:00 PM / 5:00 PM – Men’s Long Jump (Dawson)

• August 19, 8:50 PM / 7:50 PM – 100m Final (if qualified)

• August 20, 6:29 PM / 5:29 PM – 200m Semi-Finals (Croal, Belle)

• August 21, 6:20 PM / 5:20 PM – 200m Final (if qualified)

Broadcast Information

Panam Sports will offer full coverage via the Panam Sports Channe with ree access on the Panam Sports app, YouTube, website, and TikTok

About ASU2025

The Asunción 2025 Junior Pan American Games provide a platform for athletes aged 17–22 to gain elite competition experience and qualify for the Lima 2027 Pan Am Games. The event embodies unity, youth empowerment, and sportsmanship, with the official motto: “The Heart in the Games.”

The BVI Olympic Committee (BVIOC) introduced Adaejah Hodge as one of seven selected ASU2025 Ambassadors and announced the full delegation that will represent the Territory at the 2nd Junior Pan American Games, taking place August 9–23, 2025 in Asunción, Paraguay during a press briefing held at its offices on Monday, July 28.
The BVI Olympic Committee (BVIOC) introduced Adaejah Hodge as one of seven selected ASU2025 Ambassadors and announced the full delegation that will represent the Territory at the 2nd Junior Pan American Games, taking place August 9–23, 2025 in Asunción, Paraguay during a press briefing held at its offices on Monday, July 28. Photo credit: BVI Olympic Committee
(L-R) BVI Athletic Association President, Steve Augustine, Wanyae Belle (100m & 200m), BVI Olympic Committee President, Ephraim Penn, Physiotherapist, Courtney Bascombe, Coach Winston Potter, Khybah Dawson (long jump), Safeguarding / Welfare Officer Sophia Brewley-Massiah, Jaleel Croal (100m & 200m), BVIOC Member at Large Zebalon McClean, Chef de Mission, Gloria Fahie attended the press briefing on July 28 at the BVIOC Office, Road Town, Tortola to announce the Virign Islands (UK) delegation to the 2nd Junior Pan American Games, taking place August 9–23, 2025 in Asunción, Paraguay. Photo credit: BVI Olympic Committee
Filed Under: Adaejah Hodge, Asuncion 2025 Pan American Junior Games, Athletics, BVI Olympic Committee, Jaleel Croal, Khybah Daswon, PanAM Games, Panam Sports, Wanyae Belle

BVIOC Radio Talk Show – Olympic Voices – Set To Launch June 21

June 19, 2025 by

The British Virgin Islands Olympic Committee (BVIOC), with support from Olympic Solidarity, is set to launch “Olympic Voices”, an exciting and interactive new radio talk show debuting Saturday, June 21, 2025, at 3:00 PM AST on Radio ZBVI 780 AM.

Based on promoting the Olympic values of respect, friendship and excellence, Olympic Voices, hosted by Zebalon McLean, will explore the vibrant world of sports through a lively blend of history, culture, lifestyle, and Olympic dreams.

The programming of the show promises to captivate listeners with real-life anecdotes, spirited conversations, and thought-provoking discussions featuring a rotating lineup of engaging guests from member National Federations, athletes, community stakeholders and legacy makers.

“Olympic Voices isn’t just about athletics — it’s about the stories, struggles, and successes that make sports such a powerful force in our lives,” said Ephraim Penn, President, BVIOC. “The radio show aims to connect with our listening audience through experiences that resonate beyond the playing field.”

Listeners are encouraged to tune in weekly, call in to join the conversation, and share their perspectives as Olympic Voices delves into topics that matter both on and off the field.

Filed Under: BVI Olympic Committee, Olympic Solidarity Tagged With: , , ,

BVI Gears Up for Glasgow 2026 King’s Baton Relay with Artist Desiree Smith to Decorate Ash Baton, Green VI to lead Territory-Wide Coastal Clean Ups

April 17, 2025 by
L-R Zebalon McClean, Member at Large, Commonwealth Sport BVI, Dylan Penn, Director of Operations, Green VI, Ephraim Penn, President Commonwealth Sport BVI, Desiree Smith, artist, Hon Luce Hodge-Smith, Junior Minister for Tourism and Culture, Lloyd Black, Secretary General, Mark Chapman, Treasurer and Glasgow 2026 Chef de Mission with the King’s Baton at the King’s Baton Relay press briefing on April 16, 2025. Photo: Commonwealth Sport BVI

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) is set to host the Glasgow 2026 King’s Baton Relay (KBR) from May 16–21, 2025, as part of the build-up to the 23rd edition of the Commonwealth Games. The BVI will be the 10th stop on the Baton’s global journey through the 74 Commonwealth nations and territories.

In a press briefing held on April 16 at the BVIOC Office, the BVI Olympic Committee (BVIOC), in its capacity as Commonwealth Sport BVI (CSBVI), unveiled a dynamic series of community events and sustainability initiatives to mark the Baton’s arrival, alongside the exciting announcement of the artist selected to decorate the territory’s very own Baton.

Historic First

For the first time in the Relay’s history, each country will receive and decorate a unique Baton crafted from sustainable ash wood. The BVI’s decorated Baton will be proudly carried by the BVI delegation at the Opening Ceremony of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.

Honourable Luce Hodge-Smith, Junior Minister for Tourism and Culture, announced the selection of local visual artist, Desiree Smith as the official designer for the BVI Baton. Smith’s vibrant concept, which highlights the BVI’s natural beauty, culture, and sporting excellence, was selected from among invited proposals submitted from a short list of talented local artists that also included Lutia Durante, Tia Modeste, and Walden Benjamin.

Ephraim Penn, President Commonwealth Sport BVI, Desiree Smith, artist, Hon. Luce Hodge-Smith, Junior Minister for Tourism and Culture with the King’s Baton at the King’s Baton Relay press briefing on April 16, 2025. Photo: Commonwealth Sport BVI.

“Ms. Smith’s design captured the essence of the Virgin Islands in a way that was both bold and heartfelt,” said Hon. Hodge-Smith. “I am thrilled to announce that she will not only decorate the Baton, but the Honourable Premier has agreed that the Government of the Virgin Islands will be flying Ms. Smith to Glasgow to attend the Opening Ceremony as part of the BVI delegation. She will be hosted by the Premier at London House along with our Commonwealth Games team.”

Smith’s design includes three distinct panels—‘British Virgin Islands,’ ‘Colourful,’ and ‘Commonwealth Sport’—each infused with rich imagery, Territorial colors, and symbols representing the territory’s environment, culture, and athletic prowess.

“It’s a tremendous honour to represent the BVI in this way,” said Smith. “My goal was to make the Baton a vibrant expression of who we are as a people—our love for our land, our culture, and the pride we carry into every sporting arena. I hope when people see our Baton in Glasgow, they’ll immediately feel the warmth and spirit of the Virgin Islands.”

The artist will use acrylic paints, permanent markers, glitter, rhinestones, adhesives, and varnish to create a design that is both durable and striking on the international stage.

The artist selection process was overseen by Creative Waves, a cultural development initiative led by Director, Sophie Stanton. “Desiree’s submission stood out for its bold use of colour, layered symbolism, and emotional resonance,” said Stanton. “This project was about showcasing the richness of our creative community, and we’re proud of every artist who submitted. Desiree’s Baton will be a beacon of BVI pride on the world stage.”

Sustainability

The KBR celebration in the BVI will feature community-centered events, including school visits, a Baton relay through Road Town on May 20, and a coastal clean-up initiative on May 17 led by Green VI in support of the Commonwealth Clean Oceans Plastics Campaign emphasizing sustainability as a feature of the KBR.

“We are excited as an environmental NPO to be partnering with Commonwealth Sport BVI in this worthwhile event,” said Dylan Penn, Director of Operations, Green VI. “The changes demonstrate the shared value of sustainability and cultural pride. We are planning a public coastline collection of litter across the Virgin Islands including Great Harbour in Jost Van Dyke, Setting Point in Anegada, Road Town, Tortola and Taddy Bay in Virgin Gorda. We are not only collecting but we are sorting and categorizing the litter to see what we can recycle and upcycle All persons are encouraged to participate.”

Ephraim Penn, President, CSBVI noted, “This new model of the Baton Relay emphasizes sustainability, inclusion, and national pride. We are excited to celebrate with our communities through the planned activities and to share our story with the Commonwealth. We also look forward to announcing the Baton bearers for the relay and sharing the details of the handover spots through media announcements, on our website and on social media.”

Ahead of the announcement, Mark Chapman, Treasurer, CSBVI and Chef de Mission for Glasgow 2026, shared the dates for the Games to be held in Scotland, UK from July 23 – August 2, 2026, along with an overview of the 10 sports in which athletes will compete.

“The number of sports has been cut down from 20 to 10 and includes athletics, 3×3 basketball, bowls, boxing, judo, netball, power lifting, swimming, track cycling and weightlifting. The BVI has been represented at Games in athletics, squash, swimming, 3×3 basketball and cycling. We have registered 12 athletes who will be confirmed ahead of the Games,” said Chapman.

Local artist Desiree Smith was selected to decorate the Baton for the Glasgow 2026 King’s Baton Relay in the BVI. Photo Commonwealth Sport BVI
Dylan Penn, Director of Operations, Green VI will lead the coastal clean up as part of the sustainability campaign for the Glasgow 2026 Kings Baton Relay in the BVI. Photo: Commonwealth Sport BVI
Filed Under: 3x3 basketball, Athletics, BVI Commonwealth Games Association, Commonwealth Games, Commonwealth Sport BVI, Cycling, Glasgow 2026, Kings Baton Relay, Squash, Swimming Tagged With: , , , ,

British Virgin Islands to Compete in One Guyana 3×3 Quest Basketball Tournament

April 1, 2025 by
Jaquan Hodge, BVI Men’s National 3×3
Antwon Robinson, BVI Men’s National 3×3
Shakeem Tuson, BVI Men’s National 3×3
Demron Glasgow, BVI Men’s National 3×3

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) will be proudly represented in the upcoming One Guyana 3×3 Quest Basketball Tournament, set to take place on April 5-6, 2025, in Georgetown, Guyana. The tournament, hosted at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, promises fierce competition as teams battle for the championship title and a chance to qualify for the FIBA 3×3 World Tour in Edmonton.
The BVI Elite Squad, proudly supported by the BVI Olympic Committee, consists of top-tier athletes:

  • Shakeem Tyson (Captain)
  • Jaquan Hodge
  • Demron Glasgow
  • Antwon Robinson

Eustace Freeman will coach the team, bringing a wealth of experience and leadership to guide
the players through the highly competitive tournament. The BVI Elite Team Group includes
Puerto Rico, St. Kitts, Mexico and Guyana.

Tournament Format

20 registered teams will be divided into four groups (A, B, C, D) of five teams each, with placement
based on their 3×3 rankings.

The top two teams from each group will advance to the Quarter-Finals.

The tournament follows a single-game elimination format from the Quarter-Finals
onward.

The Championship Game will determine the tournament winner, while the semi-final
losers will compete for third place.

Prize Breakdown:

  • Champions: USD 5,000 + airline tickets to FIBA 3×3 World Tour (Edmonton)
  • Second Place: USD 2,000
  • Third Place: USD 1,000
Filed Under: 3x3 basketball, Basketball, BVI Olympic Committee Tagged With: , , ,

Commonwealth Games Federation launches collaborative host selection process for centenary Games and beyond

January 14, 2025 by
The Commonwealth Games Federation has invited its 74 Commonwealth Games Associations (CGAs) to lodge formal expressions of interest to host the centenary Games in 2030 and beyond.

The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) confirmed today the new collaborative host selection process for the centenary 2030 Commonwealth Games and beyond is now underway.

With Glasgow 2026 preparations progressing apace, the CGF is continuing the positive momentum by inviting its 74 Commonwealth Games Associations (CGAs) to lodge formal expressions of interest (EOIs) for 2030 and future editions of the Commonwealth Games.

The CGF’s 2023-2034 ‘Commonwealth United’ Strategic Plan, launched in June 2023, and ‘Games Reset’ allows a move away from the organisation’s traditional host bidding process, enabling it to be flexible in offering the opportunity to potential hosts to be innovative and work collaboratively through
a co-creation process on proposals for delivering the Games, while ensuring that all CGAs can meaningfully participate.

The new approach will start with an initial co-creation and collaboration phase between the CGF and representatives of potential host countries or territories along with the respective CGA, followed by a CGF-led evaluation process and recommendation of a host, with the final appointment of the host ultimately decided by the CGF General Assembly.

The CGF has identified a set of principles forming the new framework to create a modern, flexible Games blueprint for the future, including:

  • Host nations will have increased flexibility to shape the Games and ensure legacy benefit for local communities. The CGF, host CGA, and host Government and community will work together to co-create the event and associated legacy benefits and social return on investment.
  • Hosting costs will be significantly reduced from historical Commonwealth Games costs to diversify the hosting pipeline and enable more, new countries and territories to host. This will be achieved through continued delivery optimisation and encouraging the use of existing venues for sport
    and accommodation, unless additional infrastructure is part of existing national development plans that will happen irrespective of a Games.
  • The Games will allow for an innovative, inclusive, and exciting sports programme that aims to inspire and positively contribute to the lives of the people of the Commonwealth by showcasing and celebrating its athletes, delivering impactful sporting moments, bringing value and meaningful
    benefits to hosts, whilst being attractive to athletes and relevant for all CGAs, International Federations and wider stakeholders. The Games will maintain full commitment to providing a level playing field for Para and non-Para sport and supporting the Para athlete development pathway.

CGF President Chris Jenkins said, ‘’We have consulted extensively with Governments, our CGA members and other stakeholders to create a new framework for advancing the relevance of the Commonwealth Games by prioritising the five key pillars of sport, cultural, social, diplomatic and economic impact that underpin the purpose of the Commonwealth Sport Movement and
impact of the Games. Building on this framework, we have identified the strong principles that will steer us in the creation of a modern, flexible Games blueprint for the future.

“Glasgow 2026 is set to act as a bridge to a bright future for the Commonwealth Games – an exciting first step in the CGF’s journey to reset and redefine the Games as a truly co-created, flexible and sustainable model for the future that inspires athletes, delivers tangible legacy benefits, minimises costs, reduces the environmental footprint, and enhances social impact,” said Jenkins.

CGF Director of Games and Assurance Darren Hall said, “With Glasgow 2026 fully operational, we start the New Year in a strong position, looking forward with confidence to the long-term future of the Commonwealth Games, and we are delighted to formally open our new collaborative host selection process for the centenary Games in 2030 and beyond.

“In addition to single city proposals, co-hosting within a country and across nations
and territories will be actively encouraged to open up more hosting opportunities
for more Commonwealth countries previously excluded from the ability to host,”
said Hall.

ENDS

About the Commonwealth Games Federation
The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) is the organisation with responsibility for the
direction and control of the Commonwealth Games and Commonwealth Youth Games, and for
delivering the vision of the Commonwealth Sport Movement: ‘Our Commonwealth, united
through sport’.
Our mission is to deliver inspirational and impactful Games; to excite and empower athletes
and young people; and to drive equality in sport and society across the Commonwealth.
Established in 1930, the Commonwealth Sport Movement brings together 74 independent
nations and territories creating a diverse Commonwealth community of over 2.5 billion
individuals, representing one-third of the world’s population. Together we stand as a beacon of
unity, diversity, and equality, completely integrating Para athletes, driving gender equality and
advocating for legacy and social change through sport.
MEDIA ENQUIRIES
CGF MEDIA
J.Mulligan@thecgf.com
Media@thecgf.com


Filed Under: BVI Commonwealth Games Association, Commonwealth Games Tagged With: ,

Delilah Pease wins Canadian Junior Open

December 11, 2024 by

Another historic week for BVI Squash as Delilah Pease becomes the first ever BVI player to win the Canadian Junior Open

Delilah Pease wins 2024 Canada Junior Open Squash Championship
Delilah Pease wins 2024 Canada Junior Open Squash Championship

The BVI Squash Racket Association, with support from the BVI Olympic Committee, took a team of 4 of its strongest juniors to Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada for the 2024 Canadian Junior Open Championships, December 7-10. 

The prestigious event within the squash world saw just under 400 juniors competing in categories ranging from Under 11 to Under 19. 

BVI Junior Squash Team

The BVI junior squash team comprised Oliver Henderson (Boys U19), Danny Henderson (Boys U17), Jakob Noblett-Diaz (Boys U13) and Delilah Pease (Girls U11) accompanied by National Squash Coach Adam Murrills.

All the players delivered strong performances throughout the competition, collectively winning 15 of 23 matches. 

Oliver Henderson won 2 of 5 matches, Danny won 3 of 5 while Jakob won an impressive 5 of 7 matches claiming the Plate 1c competition. 

Delilah Pease historic win

Delilah Pease played impressively from her first round on wards. In the last 16, she played Naomi Kim, a very strong Canadian opponent, in what was a very close encounter in which she fought back from 1-0 and 7-3 down. This fighting spirit was something she would need to call upon later in the event.

Delilah won both her quarter final and semi final 3-0 to move into the final where she was up against Eugenia Cao, the number 2 ranked player in Canada. Eugenie came out strong in the first game and used her speed, low kills, and boasts to great effect to take the first game 11-7.

Eugenie is a left hander and, between games, Coach Adam and Delilah spoke about the importance of targeting Eugenie’s backhand particularly deep in the court. They also spoke about making sure Delilah’s serve hit the side wall to make it tougher for Eugenie to get in to the rallies. 

Delilah took the advice on board and came out firing. She was hitting with purpose to the back of court and was managing to exploit Eugenie’s slight weakness deep on her backhand side. Delilah constructed her points intelligently and won games 2 and 3 to take a 2-1 lead. 

Eugenie attacked game 4 with a renewed vigour and took the game to tie the match at 2-2 and force a 5th and final deciding game.

Competing on the glass court in a major final in front of a big crowd can be daunting and many 10 year olds would have let the occasion get the better of them. However, both Delilah and Eugenie handled the situation with great composure and a steeliness that belied their age. The two traded points back and forth. Eugenie managed to pull away slightly towards the end of the game to create a 10-8 lead and earn herself 2 Championship balls. Delilah used her aforementioned fighting spirit to claw her way back to 10-10 and force a tie break. Delilah took a deep breath, steadied herself, and went on to produce two more incredible points to claim the Canadian Junior Open Title.

In doing so she has made history for the BVI in becoming the territory’s first player to win the prestigious event.

“This win is testament to Delilah’s hard work, dedication, and complete love of the game,” said Coach Adam. “Hopefully this serves to spur on all of our juniors and show them what they are capable of achieving!

“Congrats to Delilah on creating history for BVI Squash and congrats to all our Elite players for constantly pushing their boundaries and raising the ceiling of BVI Squash!”

The BVISRA is based at the Tortola Sports Club which features state of the art courts. The venue hosts the BVISRA PSA tournaments and most recently hosted the 2024 Nagico and Interpath Junior Caribbean Squash Association (CASA) Championships.

Filed Under: BVI Olympic Committee, Delilah Pease, Squash Tagged With: , ,
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