The British Virgin Islands Olympic Committee (BVIOC), in collaboration with H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC), has officially launched History of OECS Athletics, a landmark publication by pioneering sports administrator and historian Rey O’Neal OBE.
The launch, held on July 13 at the HLSCC Atrium in Paraquita Bay, celebrated O’Neal’s lifelong contribution to athletics in the British Virgin Islands and across the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). Earlier this month, the publication was also presented to OECS National Olympic Committee representatives during the Opening Ceremony of the ANOCES Track and Field Championships in St. Kitts and Nevis.
Welcoming guests, BVIOC President Ephraim Penn described the book as “not just a book, but a legacy.”
“This publication is a landmark historical and statistical organisation of OECS track and field achievements. It captures decades of dedication, discipline and regional pride,” Penn said.
The publication preserves an invaluable record of Eastern Caribbean athletics and reflects O’Neal’s decades of service as a teacher, coach, administrator and sports historian. The book, which has been donated to all the NOCs of the Eastern Caribbean will serve as an important resource for students, researchers and future generations.
Honourable Sharie B. De Castro, Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, praised O’Neal’s commitment to preserving the region’s sporting heritage.
“Mr. Rey O’Neal has not simply recorded times, distances, names and medals. He has preserved memory. He has protected legacy,” she said adding that while records are meant to be broken, “records must also be kept,” describing the publication as an enduring gift that will inspire future generations of athletes.
Representing the HLSCC, Dr. Luverne Vanterpool-Baptiste, Vice President of Policy and Administration, said the College was proud to partner with the BVIOC on the launch.
“Athletes create history through their performances. Authors preserve that history through careful documentation,” said Dr. Vanterpool-Baptiste noting the book would become part of the HLSCC library collection, ensuring that the history of athletics in the OECS remains accessible to students, researchers and the wider community.
Speaking on behalf of the O’Neal family, Colin O’Neal reflected on his brother’s lifelong passion for documenting sport. He thanked the BVIOC and all involved in recognising Rey O’Neal’s remarkable contribution to sport, expressing the family’s appreciation for the overwhelming support shown during the launch.
History of OECS Athletics chronicles more than six decades of track and field across the OECS through historical accounts, athlete profiles, championship results and statistical records. The publication stands as one of the most comprehensive references on athletics in the Eastern Caribbean and serves as a lasting tribute to Rey O’Neal’s dedication to preserving the region’s sporting history.
Printed as a limited edition, copies of the book are available for purchase from the BVIOC office for $40 with proceeds going towards the Tahesia Harrigan Scott Elite Athlete Scholarship fund.
The BVIOC expressed its gratitude to Olympic Solidarity, H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, the editorial team and contributors for helping bring the landmark publication to fruition and ensuring that one of the region’s richest sporting histories will continue to educate and inspire generations to come.
