BVI Team Named for Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

July 13, 2026 by

Commonwealth Sport BVI (CSBVI) has officially announced the athletes and officials who will represent the Virgin Islands at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, to be held in Glasgow, Scotland, from 23 July to 2 August 2026.

Mark Chapman, Chef de Mission for Glasgow 2026 named the team of 7 track and 4 field athletes who will compete on a state-of-the-art new track at Scotstoun Stadium when competition kicks off on July 27.

Track athletes: Adaejah Hodge Women’s 100m (Round 1 – July 27) & Women’s 200m (Round 1 – July 29), Beyoncé Defreitas Women’s 100m (Round 1 – July 27) & Women’s 200m (Round 1 – July 29), Rikkoi Brathwaite – Men’s 100m (Round 1 – July 27), Jaleel Croal -Men’s 100m (Round 1 – July 27) & Men’s 200m (Round 1 – July 29), Wanyaé Belle – Men’s 100m (Round 1 – July 27) & Men’s 200m (Round 1 – July 29), Kaelyaah Liburd – Women’s 400m (Round 1 – July 28), Deya Erickson – Women’s 100m Hurdles (Round 1 – July 30)

Field athletes: Khybah Dawson – Men’s Long Jump (Round 1 – July 27), Djimon Gumbs – Men’s Shot Put (Round 1 – July 29), Chantel Malone – Women’s Long Jump (Qualifying Round – July 31), Kimberly Smith – Women’s Long Jump (Qualifying Round – July 31)

Hodge was named the flag bearer with Jaleel Croal named as the baton bearer and will carry the King’s Baton – uniquely decorated for the Virgin Islands by local artist Desiree Smith – into the arena at the Opening Ceremony.

“We are taking one of the strongest athletics teams the Virgin Islands has assembled for the Commonwealth Games. Several members return with valuable Games experience, while others will be making their debut on one of the world’s biggest multi-sport stages. We are confident they are prepared to compete at the highest level.” said Chapman.

Malone competed in long jump at Glasgow 2014 with a 4th place finish and a 5th place at Gold Coast 2018. Brathwaite, Defreitas and Gumbs all made their Commonwealth Games debuts at Birmingham 2022. It will be the first appearance for Hodge, Croal, Belle, Liburd, Dawson and Smith.

Speaking at the official team announcement, Commonwealth Sport BVI President Ephraim Penn acknowledged the unique challenge presented by the overlap between the Commonwealth Games and the Central American and Caribbean Games.

“This year has required tremendous collaboration between our National Federations and both organising committees to ensure our athletes have every opportunity to compete at the highest level. We appreciate everyone’s commitment to finding solutions that place our athletes first,” said Penn. “With such a successful season so far for our team members, we are excited to be bringing them to a world stage where they will put everything to the test as they aim for the highest results in these friendly Games.”

“Glasgow 2026 is a celebration of sport, culture and community and so it is our expectation that the experience will foster friendships between all athletes across the Commonwealth,” added Penn.

BVI Athletics Association President Steve Augustine praised the athletes’ preparation following an outstanding season that included impressive performances at the NACAC Championships and on the international circuit.

“Our athletes have shown throughout the season that they belong among the very best. They have trained exceptionally hard, achieved qualifying standards and continue to raise the profile of Virgin Islands athletics. We look forward to seeing them compete against some of the strongest nations in the Commonwealth.”

Attending the Games with the athletes are coaches Jean Carlos Arroyo, Michael Heimerman, Winston Potter, Karene Hodge and physiotherapists Thomas Jepperson and Sofie Slider. Desiree Smith will also be attending the Games, courtesy of the Premier and Minister of Finance and Tourism, Dr. The Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley in recognition of her selection to decorate the Baton for the Territory.

The delegation will arrive in Glasgow ahead of the Opening Ceremony on 23 July.

Conducted every four years since inception in 1930, Glasgow 2026 will be the 23rd edition of the Commonwealth Games with approximately 3,000 athletes from 74 nations and territories competing in 10 sports for championship titles. To date the Virgin Islands has participated in 9 Commonwealth Games since Auckland, New Zealand in 1990 with two championship medals secured by Kyron McMaster in the 400m hurdles at Gold Coast 2018 and Birmingham 2022.

Following the withdrawal by the original host city, Victoria, Australia, Glasgow stepped forward to stage the 23rd Commonwealth Games with a streamlined programme featuring ten sports. The adjusted events removed squash, a sport that the BVI has been represented in at every Commonwealth Games since Melbourne 2006.

Updates on the team will be posted on the BVIOC Facebook and Instagram accounts.

Filed Under: Adaejah Hodge, Athletics, Beyoncé deFreitas, chantel malone, Commonwealth Games, Commonwealth Sport BVI, Deya Erickson, Djimon Gumbs, Ephraim Penn, Glasgow 2026, Jaleel Croal, Kaelyahh Liburd, Khybah Daswon, Kimberly Smith, Rikkoi Brathwaite, Wanyae Belle Tagged With: , , ,

CTL Home Center Commits US$10,000 to Tahesia Harrigan-Scott Elite Athlete Scholarship programme, Pledges Continued Support Over Three Years

January 7, 2026 by

CTL Home Center has reinforced its commitment to sports excellence in the Virgin Islands (UK) with a second US$10,000 donation to the British Virgin Islands Olympic Committee (BVIOC) in support of the Tahesia Harrigan Scott Elite Athlete Scholarship (THSEAS) Programme. The presentation, made on January 2 at the store’s location in Fish Bay, Tortola preceded a Meet & Greet with Olympian Kyron McMaster OBE.

The donation forms part of CTL Home Center’s three-year commitment to the programme, aimed at ensuring sustained support for the Territory’s top-performing athletes. The funds will be used to provide direct financial assistance to elite athletes, supporting critical needs such as training expenses, international competition travel, coaching services, medical and sports science support, and high-performance equipment. These resources are essential in allowing athletes to compete consistently at the highest levels while representing the Virgin Islands on the regional and global stage.

Ephraim Penn, President of the BVIOC, underscored the significance of sustained corporate partnerships in elite sport development.

“Elite performance requires long-term investment. CTL Home Center’s commitment over multiple years allows us to plan strategically and provide consistent support to our athletes as they progress through their competitive cycles. This partnership directly strengthens our high-performance programme,” Penn said. “The effectiveness of the THEAS programme has been proven over the years from when it was launched in 2012 with a fund of $50,000 to support Tahesia Harrigan, the territory’s leading athlete at the time. The fund allowed us to support 6 elite athletes in the last quadrennial – four of whom qualified for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. This quadrennial, we have nine athletes on the roster – all with their sights on the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.”

Steve Augustine, President of the BVI Athletics Association, highlighted the practical impact of the funding on athlete readiness and performance.

“These funds address real and immediate needs faced by elite athletes, from access to quality training environments to the ability to compete internationally. Support of this nature plays a vital role in maintaining and elevating the standard of athletics and sport in the Virgin Islands,” Augustine stated.

Michael Thomas, Managing Director of CTL Home Center, explained the company’s motivation for investing in the programme and committing to long-term support.

“At CTL Home Center, we believe that supporting elite athletes is an investment in national pride, youth inspiration, and the future of the Virgin Islands. Our three-year commitment reflects our belief in sustained development and our desire to play a meaningful role in helping our athletes reach their full potential on the world stage,” Thomas said.

Thomas added that CTL Home Center views sport as a powerful platform for positive social impact, leadership development, and community unity, aligning closely with the company’s corporate values. The donation was made through the CTL Cares initiative – CTL’s platform for its ongoing commitment to community support, sponsorships, and partnerships that positively impact the Virgin Islands.

The 9 elite athletes include track and field athletes Kyron McMaster OLY, Chantel Malone OLY, Rikkoi Brathwaite OLY, Beyoncé De Freitas, Djimon Gumbs, Jaleel Croal, Kimberly Smith, Kaelyaah Liburd and Khybah Dawson. Representing the scholarship recipients, Olympian Kyron McMaster expressed appreciation for the continued backing and stability provided through the programme.

“Consistent support makes a tremendous difference in our preparation and performance. Knowing that partners like CTL Home Center are committed to us over the long term allows athletes to focus on training, recovery, and competition with confidence,” McMaster shared.

The event was moderated by Zebalon McLean, Member at Large of the BVIOC, who emphasized the importance of collaboration between the private sector, sporting bodies, and athletes in building a sustainable high-performance environment.

The Tahesia Harrigan Scott Elite Athlete Scholarship Programme is designed to provide comprehensive support to the British Virgin Islands’ elite athletes as they prepare for major regional and international competitions, including the Olympic Games and World Championships. Sponsors of athletes preparing for Paris 2024 included CTL Home Center, DLT Solutions, Conyers, Capriccio di Mare, National Bank of the Virgin Islands, Trident Trust (BVI) Ltd, Deloitte, Mrs. Vivian Lloyd, The Guana Fund, Republic Bank, BDO, Scrub Island Resort and Smiths Gore.

Filed Under: Athletics, Beyoncé deFreitas, BVI Olympic Committee, chantel malone, Commonwealth Games, Commonwealth Sport BVI, Djimon Gumbs, Ephraim Penn, Jaleel Croal, Kaelyahh Liburd, Khybah Daswon, Kimberly Smith, Kyron McMaster, Olympic Solidarity, Panam Sports, Rikkoi Brathwaite, Tahesia Harrigan-Scott Elite Athlete Scholarship Tagged With: , , , ,

Global Athletics Gold – Adaejah Hodge hits the jackpot!

September 2, 2024 by

By Reynold O’Neal

The World Athletics Under 20 Junior Championships in Lima, Peru marked an important milestone in the track and field history of the British Virgin Islands. Two days after becoming the first athlete from her country to earn a silver medal at the World U20 when she placed second to Jamaica’s Alana Reid in the 100 m dash, the 18-year-old Adaejah Hodge lived up to her favourite’s billing by winning the 200m dash in an impressive 22.74 seconds.

The performances made her only the second athlete from the Territory to have won a medal of any colour these Championships, following Kyron McMaster’s bronze in the 400m hurdles in 2016.
McMaster has thus far been the only BVI athlete to have won a medal at a senior Outdoor World Championships event when he finished second at the 2023 World Championships in Athletics. Earlier Tahesia Harrigan had won a bronze medal in the 60m dash in 2008.

Global gold medals by athletes from the smaller countries of the Caribbean have been quite rare, although 2nd and 3rd place finishes have been less so. In fact, prior to Hodge only two athletes from the smaller islands of the Caribbean had won their events at the World U20 – Akela Jones of Barbados and Kirani James of Grenada. Interestingly, all three had won the Sir Austin Sealy award as the Outstanding Athlete at the CARIFTA Games.

Kirani James is unique among international athletes in that he has won gold medals at World Youth and World Junior championships (twice) as well as having a complete set of gold, silver and bronze medals at both the Olympic Games and World Athletics Championships.

Hodge will hope to join the trio of her compatriots who at some point in their careers have been ranked in the world’s top 10 in their events – Tahesia Harrigan in the 100m, Chantel Malone in the long jump (twice) and Kyron McMaster in the 400m hurdles (7 times).

Filed Under: Adaejah Hodge, Athletics, BVI Olympic Committee, chantel malone, Kyron McMaster, Sports History by Rey O'Neal, Tahesia Harrigan-Scott Tagged With: , , , ,

CTL, DLT Solutions, Conyers and Capriccio step in to support BVIOC roster of elite athletes on journey to Paris 2024 Olympic Games

March 12, 2024 by

With the Paris 2024 Summer Olympic Games just five months away, private sector businesses have stepped in to support the BVI Olympic Committee’s roster of elite athletes on their journey to the Games. The announcement of Clarence Thomas Ltd (CTL), DLT Solutions, Conyers and Capriccio as key sponsors of the renamed Tahesia Harrigan-Scott Elite Athlete Scholarship (THSEAS) fund was made at a media briefing held at the BVIOC office in Road Town on March 5.
 
For the past twelve years, starting in 2012, the BVIOC has provided a stipend framework that funds the development of the BVIOC’s elite athletes who are on track to compete for medals at major Games. 
 
The annual funding for the elite athlete scholarship initiative – renamed on March 5, 2024 to the Tahesia Harrigan-Scott Elite Athlete Scholarship – is currently $200,000 each year and comes in the form of athlete grants from the International Olympic Committee’s Olympic Solidarity (OS) and Panam Sports and is disbursed directly to the BVIOC’s quadrennial roster of elite athletes. The athletes are identified in collaboration with the National Federations, International Federations and OS.
 
The BVIOC’s current roster of elite athletes – all of whom are national and regional record holders with proven track records in major Games – include Kyron McMaster, silver medalist in World Championships and world ranked #4 in the men’s 400m hurdles, Chantel Malone (long jump), Eldred Henry (shot put), Rikkoi Brathwaite (100m) Adaejah Hodge (200m) and Thad Lettsome (ILCA 7 laser sailor).
 
“With medals in mind, the BVIOC is seeking to boost the monthly stipend for the 6  athletes on our roster identified as likely to make the team for Paris 2024 which takes place this summer July 26 – August 11,” said BVIOC and BVI Commonwealth Games Association President Ephraim Penn. “The annual sum for the programme has already been allocated and we are very grateful for the sponsors that have come on board this year to help with the additional funds required by the athletes to continue to cover the services of their respective coaches and therapists over the next five months.”
 
Explaining more about the scholarship programme, BVIOC/BVICGA Treasurer Mark Chapman said, “The THSEAS stipend contributes to training and coaching, athlete support including access to sports medicine, physical therapy, performance analysis, nutrition counselling, and mental resilience training. These resources are critical in helping athletes reach their full potential and achieve success at the international level. Our reporting system for the grants ensures accountability and transparency in the distribution of funds.”
 
President Penn also mentioned that going forward, the THSEAS programme will benefit from a committee comprising representatives of the BVIOC, beneficiary athletes’ National Federations and sponsors to review and discuss the ongoing needs and disbursement of funds to the roster of athletes.
 
CTL has committed to supporting the THSEAS programme for four years with an annual sponsorship of $10,000. Mr. David Thomas, Operations Manager speaking at the media briefing said, “Clarence Thomas Ltd has always been at the forefront in trying to help any development that happens in our country. We believe in supporting and assisting where we can in the development of our future stars. We are in a unique position right now with our current world class athletes with more coming up so it wasn’t difficult for us to come on board and help.”
 
Sharing comments remotely on behalf of Mr. Ronan Kuczaj, Founder and CEO of DLT Solutions, who have sponsored the THSEAS fund with a $10,000 donation for 2024, BVIOC Secretary General Lloyd Black said, “DLT Solutions is delighted to be an officer sponsor of the programme.  We acknowledge the immense dedication and sacrifice made by the athletes and their families in pursuing their dreams and also representing the Virgin Islands. Speaking personally, we felt compelled to donate to this project as a tribute to the late and great Dag Samuels, whose infectious spirit surrounded us when we were playing rugby on the field adjacent to his superlative track and field program.  Dag’s joyful smile lives long in the memory, much like his athletic legacy, evidenced by this latest crop of talented athletes.”
 
Conyers has contributed $10,000 to the programme for the road to Paris 2024 with an option to renew the commitment thereafter. Mark Forte, Managing Partner and Head of Litigation and Restructuring for Conyers said, “As a major employer within the community we believe strongly in supporting various initiatives in the community and are attracted to programmes that help develop, address the future and aspirations of talent. We identify with the notions of perseverance, commitment, achievement, dedication and no short cuts so we are proud to play a part and congratulate all those involved in the [THSEAS] programme. We wish all the best to our athletes and look forward to watching them strive in Paris – it’s not all about winning but it’s about development of the individual, the team, the community, and the country is the most important thing.”
 
Mark Forte, who also is a partner in the Capriccio di Mare Trattoria in Road Town, made a surprise commitment at the media briefing announcing a contribution of $5000 by the Italian restaurant to the THSEAS programme.
 
Attending the media briefing remotely, Chef de Mission for Paris 2024, Tahesia Harrigan-Scott OLY stressed the importance of the financial support provided by the fund that helps to remove the burden of stress from the athletes. Acknowledging the support from the BVIOC and the sponsors, Harrigan-Scott said “the progression and medals come with a level of responsibility and commitment, not only from the athletes but form the supporting members and everyone in the BVI. I commend the BVIOC and sponsors and encourage others to contribute what they can and be part of the journey and the mission.”
 
National Federation representatives, BVI Athletics Association President Steve Augustine and RBVIYC Sailing Association Administrator Ms. Tamsin Rand thanked the sponsors. Each provided an overview of the respective sports development and importance of the funding to support athletes’ progress. BVIOC Member at Large Gloria Fahie concluded the briefing with a vote of thanks and invitation for additional sponsors of the programme.

The announcement of the major sponsors included a brief virtual appearance and words of thanks from 400m hurdler Kyron McMaster OBE OLY, who said, “Everyone benefiting from this programme thanks you tremendously because the saying “it takes a village to raise one” is apt for the BVI. We are not as big as the nations of the world we are up against. We are a small fish trying to make big waves in an ocean and with the support we are getting from the BVIOC and the private sector, these funds help us to move mountains you can’t imagine!”
 
THSEAS sponsors have access to tickets to select events at Paris 2024. Entities who would like to support the THSEAS programme are invited to contact the BVIOC office by email at info@bviolympics.org or call (284) 346 8375 or visit the THSEAS web page for more information.

Filed Under: Adaejah Hodge, Athletics, BVI Olympic Committee, chantel malone, Eldred Henry, Kyron McMaster, Paris 2024, Rikkoi Brathwaite, Sailing, Tahesia Harrigan-Scott Elite Athlete Scholarship, Thad Lettsome

Athlete performances at Tokyo 2020 Olympics brings BVI in sight of podium – BVIOC seeks investment into elite athletes

August 9, 2021 by
  • Elinah Phillip, of British Virgin Islands, swims in a women’s 50-meter freestyle heat at the 2020 Summer Olympics, Friday, July 30, 2021, in Tokyo, Japan. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)
  • TOKYO, JAPAN – AUGUST 03: Chantel Malone of Team British Virgin Islands competes in the Women’s Long Jump Final on day eleven of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at Olympic Stadium on August 03, 2021 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)
  • Kyron McMaster of Team British Virgin Islands competes during round one of the Men’s 400m hurdles heats on day seven of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at Olympic Stadium on July 30, 2021 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)

The British Virgin Islands was represented by 3 athletes in 2 sports at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games which concluded on August 8 with a closing ceremony at the Olympic Stadium. The small team comprising Kyron McMaster (400m hurdles), Chantel Malone (long jump) and Elinah Phillip (50m freestyle) was the strongest set to represent the territory at any Olympic Games.

Eldred Henry (shot put) was the first athlete to have qualified for Tokyo 2020 but he was forced to pull out due to an injury in his throwing arm.

In a Game of firsts for the territory, McMaster and Malone became the BVI’s first 2 athletes to advance to the finals to compete amongst the world’s best athletes in their events. They each were the first athletes to compete in the hurdles and long jump respectively. McMaster was the first athlete to win his heats and the first to make the top 4 finalists to cross the line with his time of 47.08 – current 4th fastest time and the world’s 8th fastest time ever – in what has been classed as the event’s fastest Olympic race. McMaster and Phillip also set National Records with Phillip’s time of 25.74 marking her as the top Caribbean performer in the 50m Free.

Harrigan-Scott, a three-times Olympian and the first female to represent the BVI at the Olympics in 2008, led the organisation and management of the team at the Games.

Speaking at a wrap up virtual press conference on August 4 after the final competition for the BVI, Ephraim Penn, President of the BVI Olympic Committee congratulated and thanked the athletes, their coaches and National Federations and also acknowledged the efforts of the Chef de Mission and Lloyd Black, Secretary General for the BVIOC, who was the COVID Liaison Officer for the delegation.

Penn went on to explain that the impressive results of the team at the Games was many years in the making that required planning and funding to support the athletes in their training and preparations for the Games. He highlighted that the performances put the athletes as serious podium contenders in upcoming Games and that the opportunity was open to the private sector to support the pathway to get athletes to the finals and ultimately to the podium of the Olympics.

“The athletes have been preparing for these Games for 5 years and are recipients of an Olympic Scholarship which offers financial and technical support so they can train and compete at qualifying meets for the Olympics. In addition, the BVIOC set up an Elite Athlete scholarship which puts money into the hands of the athletes to ease their financial stress so that they can concentrate on preparing for competition. Their successes at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics will make it easier for us to try and solicit more funding from the private sector and bolster the structure we have in place to support them so they can develop to the best of their ability.”

The Chef de Mission, who is responsible for the organisation and logistical management of the delegation as well as the technical aspects of the athletes’ competitions and daily schedules and activities while at the Games, reviewed the athletes’ performances and acknowledged the commitment of their coaches and support of the BVIOC and encouraged a forward movement to help the athletes reach their potential.

“While our athletes may come from a small nation where the resources are more limited than larger countries, they come to compete with the same heart, talent and dedication so if we can figure out a way to level the playing field and really invest in them, you will be surprised at where they can take us because they are at that level and they are exceptionally good.”

Harrigan-Scott wrapped up the experience with a reflection on the organisation of the Games. “It actually was an amazing Games and the organisers, volunteers and Government of Japan did an incredible job under the constraints and concerns of the COVID-19 pandemic. I am glad the Games were not cancelled as the athletes were ready to compete and we have seen some exceptional performances here.”

Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley, MHA. Deputy Premier Minister for Education, Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture, who was in Japan to witness the finals, congratulated the athletes on their achievements and thanked them and the delegation for their roles in the success of the BVI’s appearance at Tokyo 2020 and to pledge more support for the athletes.

“We now understand what it takes to compete at this level and I will be focused on what we can do to assist more. We know that we have to invest more in sports and be more consistent in our support for our athletes and I will be working on this in consultation with the BVIOC,” said Dr. the Honourable Minister Wheatley.

In addition to the 3 athletes, the Chef de Mission, Ephraim Penn and Lloyd Black the BVI delegation included Team Coach Winston Potter, Coach Lennox Graham (McMaster), Coach Dwight Phillips (Malone), Coach Brien Moffitt (Elinah) and Sofia Fay, BVIOC PRO/Reporter.

The athletes, including Henry who is on the road to recovery, will continue with their training and preparations for upcoming competitions after a short rest and recovery break. A return date to the BVI is not yet confirmed based on their training and competition schedules. Malone and McMaster have sights on competing at the Diamond League events in Europe in August and September respectively.

Filed Under: Athletics, BVI Olympic Committee, chantel malone, Eldred Henry, Elinah Phillip, Kyron McMaster, Olympic Solidarity, Swimming, Tahesia Harrigan-Scott, Tokyo 2020 Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Kyron McMaster qualifies for the 400m Hurdles finals at Tokyo 2020

August 2, 2021 by

Embed from Getty Images

Adding to the exciting action of the day on August 1, Kyron McMaster joined teammate, long jumper Chantel Malone in making history when he won his heat in the 400m hurdles semifinals with a time of 48.26 to automatically qualify for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic event finals.

“I got to the warm-up track ahead of the race and just zoned in and went through the normal routine. Coach Lennox and I had agreed that once I got to the race the plan was solely to run to get into the finals rather than to try and run hard, and we accomplished that goal. Now it’s just to rest and get the body tuned up and get ready for the finals,” said McMaster.

McMaster became the first male athlete of the territory and second national athlete to advance to an Olympic final after Malone’s performance earlier in the day. He is also the first athlete to win individual event heats at the Olympics.

“The goal is not finished just yet,” said McMaster. “We are on the homestretch and it’s just to complete the race by getting on the line and giving my best!”

The BVI delegation, which includes Ephraim Penn, President of the BVI Olympic Committee, Lloyd Black, Secretary General, Tahesia Harrigan-Scott, Chef de Mission, Team Coach Winston Potter and McMaster’s personal Coach Lennox Graham were in the stands to watch the semi-finals.

“While we were not surprised to see Kyron cross the line first, we were no less excited about the result. Kyron is a fighter and there is no way that he would not have done whatever he needed to do to make it into the finals. We are very proud of his success,” said Penn. “To have athletes competing in the finals at an Olympic Games is a plan that has been in the making since the BVIOC’s Quadrennial goals of 2012 and to witness it happening at Tokyo 2020 with 2 of our successful senior track and field athletes who are Olympic Scholarship recipients is very thrilling and we can’t wait to watch their closing performances.”

The 400m hurdles finals takes place on Tuesday, August 3 at 12:20pm JST (11:20pm, Monday, August 2 BVI time) when McMaster will race in lane 4 against the world’s top 3 hurdlers including world record holder Karsten Warholm (Norway), Rai Benjamin (USA) and Alison dos Santos (Brazil).

Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley, MHA. Deputy Premier Minister for Education, Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture arrived into Japan a day before the finals to witness the historic occasion.

McMaster’s Olympic debut at Tokyo 2020 was preceded with a short but successful season where he set a new National Record and PB when he ran a time of 47.50 at the USA Track and Field Golden Games, Walnut, California in May 2021.

A two-times Diamond League Champion and ranked number 4 by World Athletics, McMaster made major history for the BVI when he won the Territory’s first Commonwealth Games medal when he was 21 years old with a 48.25 first-place finish at the Gold Coast 2018 Games in Australia. He is also set new event records for the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games at Barranquilla 2018 and for the North American Central American and Caribbean (NACAC) Championships at Toronto 2018.

Malone, who secured her spot in the long jump finals with an automatic qualifying mark of 6.82m in the Qualifying round, will also compete on Tuesday, August 3 at 10:50am (9:50pm Monday, August 2 BVI time). Elinah Phillip, the 50m freestyle swimmer, wrapped up her 2nd Olympic appearance on July 30 after she set a new National Record and PB with a non-advancing time of 25.74 in her heat of the qualifying round. The result ranks her top female Caribbean athlete in the event.

Filed Under: Athletics, BVI Olympic Committee, chantel malone, Kyron McMaster, Tokyo 2020 Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Chantel Malone advances to long jump finals at Tokyo 2020

August 1, 2021 by
Chantel Malone after qualifying for the long jump finals on August 1 at the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympic Games

Chantel Malone made history for the British Virgin Islands once more when she qualified for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games long jump finals with a distance of 6.82m achieved on her 3rd attempt at the Tokyo Olympic Stadium on Sunday, August 1.

“I’m excited and happy to be going into the finals with a 6.82- especially as I had to take some time off ahead of the Games to work on recovering from an injury that I sustained at a meet at the beginning of July,” said Malone. “Jumping an 82 was the reassurance I needed and is a testament to my growth as an athlete just because the old me would have folded after the first two bad jumps, but today, I reminded myself that it only takes one and to execute it.”

Malone became the first athlete of the territory to advance to an Olympic final.

“I may be the first athlete to make it to the finals but honestly, that’s always been the goal and to actually be on that podium. The goal is to execute and hopefully we will be good but it’s a tough field out there with a lot of automatic qualifiers, so I just have to bring my A-Game and stay focused.”

Ephraim Penn, President of the BVI Olympic Committee was watching the event from the Olympic Family tribune along with Secretary General Lloyd Black.

“We were so excited when Chantel not only qualified for the finals, but that she managed to hit a distance beyond the automatic qualifying mark of 6.75,” said Penn. “The BVIOC and family of National Federations congratulate Chantel and her coach, Dwight Phillips on this achievement and we are looking forward to Tuesday’s event and to cheering her on in support of the goal for a podium finish.”

Tokyo 2020 is Malone’s first Olympics which she qualified for when she leapt a distance of 7.08 at the Florida International “Pro Addition” International Track Meet, Miramar in March 2021. The mark was a new National Record and a Season and Personal Best for the athlete who is ranked number 8 by World Athletics.

Malone’s history-making flair was demonstrated when she won the BVI’s first PanAm Games medal when she took the gold at Lima 2019 with a leap of 6.68m.

The finals take place on Tuesday, August 3 at 10:50am (9:50pm, Monday, August 2 BVI time).

Kyron McMaster, will compete in the 400m hurdles semi-finals later today after he won his qualifying heat with a time of 48.79 on Friday, July 30. Elinah Phillip, the 50m freestyle swimmer, wrapped up her 2nd Olympic appearance on July 30 after she set a new National Record and PB with a non-advancing time of 25.74 in her heat of the qualifying round. The result ranks her top female Caribbean athlete in the event.

Filed Under: Athletics, BVI Olympic Committee, chantel malone, Elinah Phillip, Kyron McMaster, Swimming, Tokyo 2020 Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Phillip sets new 50m Freestyle National Record & McMaster advances to 400m Hurdle semi finals at Tokyo 2020

July 31, 2021 by
Elinah Phillip, of British Virgin Islands, swims in a women’s 50-meter freestyle heat at the 2020 Summer Olympics, Friday, July 30, 2021, in Tokyo, Japan. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

Elinah Phillip set a new National Record and PB when she placed 2nd in her 50m Freestyle Heat with a non-advancing time of 25.74 at the Tokyo Aquatic Center, Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games the evening of July 30, 2021.

The time is an automatic qualifier for the upcoming FINA Worlds and ranks Elinah as the Caribbean’s top female 50m freestyle athlete. It also improves her standing in the inaugural PanAm Junior Games slated to be held at the end of this year.

Earlier in the day, Kyron McMaster made national history when he advanced to the semi-finals in the 400m hurdles at his Olympic debut to become the first male athlete to compete in an Olympic semi and the only athlete to win an individual event heat. He joins Tahesia Harrigan-Scott, Chef de Mission for Tokyo 2020, to become the 2nd athlete to compete in a semi-final event at an Olympic Games. Kyron will race in Heat 3 Lane 7 on August 1.

Competing in her second Olympics, Elinah – who was also the flag bearer at the Opening Ceremony – was very excited and proud of the result which positions her 34th out of 81 competitors.

“It’s a big day for me – I finished my pre dentistry summer program at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine and came and set a new National Record and PB at the Olympics,” said the 21-year old swimmer. “I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed because this achievement means so much to me personally after a very turbulent 2020. I am very grateful for all the support that I have received from my family, the BVI Olympic Committee, FIU, my swim coach Brien Moffitt and my teammates and everyone back home. I can’t express how much it means to me.”

Watching from the Olympic Family tribune were President of the BVIOC Ephraim Penn, Secretary General Lloyd Black and Chef de Mission Tahesia Harrigan-Scott.

“Elinah’s performance this evening has impressed us all and made us incredibly proud,” said Penn. “On behalf of the BVIOC and our member federations, I congratulate Elinah on her achievement and thank her for giving 110% and doing us proud. I also would like to recognize her coach, Brien Moffitt who has demonstrated a sound appreciation for Elinah’s potential and who, in just a few months, has helped her to achieve great results and outperform herself every time.”

A swim coach at FIU, Coach Moffitt was responsible for recruiting the 21-year old to the University as part of its longterm commitment to developing a strong swimming team.

“I am so very proud of Elinah’s accomplishment today and, to be able to be at her best at the biggest sporting stage that there is, is something that shows her resilience and mental fortitude,” said Coach Moffitt. ”When you look at the path and journey she has taken to get to this point it’s very remarkable. We’re grateful and happy with what the results today but we will be coming back to work after a short and plan to aim higher and dream bigger.”

Elinah is the BVI’s leading national swimmer, holding records in the 50, 100, and 200m freestyle and the 50m butterfly. She made her Olympic debut at Rio 2016. She is the first swimmer and the youngest athlete to represent the BVI at an Olympic Games.

Ranked number 8 in her event by World Athletics, Chantel Malone will make her Olympic debut when she competes in the Tokyo 2020 long jump Qualification round on August 1.

Filed Under: Athletics, BVI Olympic Committee, chantel malone, Elinah Phillip, Kyron McMaster, Swimming, Tahesia Harrigan-Scott, Tokyo 2020 Tagged With: , , , , ,

BVI showcases colours of the BVI at Tokyo 2020 Opening Ceremony

July 23, 2021 by
Flag bearers Elinah Phillip (50m freestyle) Kyron McMaster (400m hurdler) and Tahesia Harrigan-Scott, Chef de Mission.represented the British Virgin Islands at the Opening Ceremony to mark the start of the long-awaited Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games on July 23, 2021

A delegation of three represented the British Virgin Islands at the Opening Ceremony to mark the start of the long-awaited Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games on July 23, 2021. Elinah Phillip, the 50m freestyle swimmer was the flag bearer and led ahead of Kyron McMaster (400m hurdler) and Tahesia Harrigan-Scott, Chef de Mission.

“This has been a long wait with many challenges but we all are finally here. it is exciting. Our athletes are prepared and focused, the energy levels are up and we are ready to go!” said Harrigan-Scott.

Phillip and McMaster in turn described their emotional state as being excited and euphoric and were looking forward to getting inside the Olympic Stadium to experience the atmosphere and to see the venue ahead of the competitions.

Chantel Malone (long jump) who completes the team of 3 for the 32nd Olympiad, landed in Tokyo in the late afternoon of July 23 along with the rest of the BVI’s delegation to include Ephraim Penn, President of the BVIOC, Lloyd Black, Secretary General and Winston Potter, Team Coach. Swimming coach Brien Moffitt arrived with Phillip on July 18.

“While I was unable to attend the Opening Ceremony in person due to travel delays, I was able to watch our delegation walk into the Olympic Stadium with the flag held high and proud,” said Penn. “These are unusual times and we are entering a new era of Olympic Games. We have a special team that has the full support of the BVIOC and our nation and we are definitely looking forward to their competitions next week.”

The 28th nation to march into the Olympic Stadium, the 3 representatives wore outfits designed by Rhenique Cooper and Ruth Frazer of the BVI and which incorporated the Territory’s colours and traditional dress in a modern design.

“The inspiration behind this design was our original BVI traditional dress. I wanted to take elements of the puff sleeves and the big skirt and modernize it into a dress that a BVIslander of today could wear. Thus, making the skirt tiered and shorter gave it the same effect of being full without feeling weighed down. This is will be my first time designing for the BVI Olympic Committee and I’m very excited. I’m grateful to have this opportunity and it feels very surreal,” said Cooper.

Kristin Frazer, who designed the mask, project managed the production of the Opening Ceremony wear. The men’s button-down shirt and jacket were designed by her mother, Ruth Frazer.

The Opening Ceremony typically is a high demand event where the host nation presents an exceptional performance choreographed to showcase its history, culture, and innovation and to tell a story that reflects its values and that of its Olympic legacy. For Tokyo 2020, the occasion was more subdued than usual with COVID-19 protocol restrictions limiting attendance. Observing the continuous message for delivering a “safe games”, the athlete delegations representing the 206 participating nations marching into the stadium were also smaller in number than in previous editions. There were approximately 6,000 athletes and team officials, 900 Games stakeholders and guests of honour and 3,500 broadcasters and press.

At 11:15pm (JST) His Majesty the Emperor of Japan declared the Games of Tokyo, celebrating the XXXII Olympiad of the modern era open. The Games will proceed with the new Olympic motto of “Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together” announced by the IOC on July 20.

A total of 11,091 athletes are expected to compete in 33 sports and 339 events at the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympic Games. The BVI’s athletes will compete in 2 sports and 3 events with the following dates and times (adjusted for the BVI) for each of their first round of competitions: McMaster, 400m hurdles heat 1 – 9:55 pm, Thursday, July 29; Elinah Phillip, 50m freestyle heats – 6:00 am, Friday, July 30; Malone long jump qualifying round – 8:50pm, Saturday, July 31. This will be the first Olympics for McMaster and Malone and the second for Phillip who made her Olympic debut at Rio 2016 in Brazil at 16 years of age. She was the BVI’s youngest athlete and first swimmer to compete at an Olympic Games.

The Olympic Games will be broadcast live on NBC with daily team reports and updates from the BVIOC on its social media platforms on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and by Dean Greenaway on ZROD 103.7 and CBN 90.9FM.

Filed Under: Athletics, BVI Olympic Committee, chantel malone, Elinah Phillip, IOC, Kyron McMaster, Tokyo 2020 Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

BVIOC Presents Team for Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympic Games

July 6, 2021 by
Team IVB for Tokyo 2020

The Virgin Islands (UK) Team for the rescheduled Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympic Games is today confirmed by the BVI Olympic Committee and Chef de Mission, Mrs. Tahesia Harrigan-Scott to include two track and field athletes and one swimmer. Kyron McMaster will compete in the men’s 400m hurdles and Chantel Malone will compete in the women’s long jump. Swimmer Elinah Phillip will compete in the women’s 50m freestyle. The Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games take place in Japan July 23 – August 8, 2021.

McMaster and Phillip will be the flag bearers at the Opening Ceremony on July 23. The athletes will be in clothing and masks respectively designed by Virgin Islanders Ms. Rhenique Cooper and Ms. Kristin Fraser.

This will be the first Olympic Games for McMaster and Malone while Phillip made her Olympic debut at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games in Brazil where she was the VI’s youngest athlete and the first to represent the Territory in aquatics at any Olympics.

While Olympian Eldred Henry had an automatic qualification to compete in the shot put at Tokyo 2020, ongoing recovery from an injury in his throwing arm resulted in the decision to step down from the team.

“I am proud to present our athletes for Tokyo 2020,” said Chef Harrigan-Scott, a three times Olympian in the 100m sprint. “Even though COVID-19 has drastically changed the dynamics of the Olympic Games, it did not waiver the determination or drive of our brilliant athletes. They have prepared vigorously to represent the Virgin Islands in their respective events coming up in the next few weeks and, after communicating with each of the athletes and watching their preparatory competitions leading up to Tokyo 2020, I am confident that they will make these Virgin Islands proud.”

Since the COVID-19 pandemic forced the Tokyo 2020 Games to be rescheduled by one year to take place in the summer of 2021, the IOC, Tokyo 2020 Organisers and the Government of Japan have issued stringent protocols set out in regularly updated Playbooks to ensure the health and safety of all athletes, personnel, delegates, media and the people of Japan. The strict measures for the VI delegation are overseen by appointed COVID Liaison Officers (CLOs) BVIOC Secretary General Mr. Lloyd Black and Chef Harrigan-Scott.

The Chef de Mission highlighted how the response to the pandemic has differentiated Tokyo 2020 from previous Olympic Games. Precautions include restrictive movement of the delegation, strict COVID-19 counter measures which include daily temperature and COVID-19 testing, the inability to attend other sporting events, limited-to-no guest allowance in the Olympic Village, the lack of spectators from foreign countries, no site seeing by the delegation and every movement in Tokyo and Japan needing to be pre-approved by the Japanese Government.

“The Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games probably are one of the most anticipated Games in sports,” said Mr. Penn. “The continuing changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic have been quite a challenge and on behalf of the BVIOC, I highly commend all our athletes and Chef de Mission for their focus, determination and tireless efforts which have resulted in thorough preparation and impressive performances with new national records set in all three disciplines by Chantel, Kyron and Elinah in the lead up to the Tokyo 2020 Games. We are sad that Eldred will not be joining the team in person but intend to include him in our reports from Tokyo 2020. We are extremely proud of all our athletes have achieved thus far and will be in Japan to give our support and to watch them perform at the 32nd Olympiad.”

The delegation to Tokyo will include BVIOC President Mr. Ephraim Penn, Secretary General Mr. Lloyd Black, athlete coaches Mr. Lennox Graham (McMaster), Mr. Dwight Phillipe (Malone), Mr. Brien Moffitt (Phillip) and Mr. Winston Potter (team coach). Dr. The Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley MHA, Deputy Premier, Minister for Education, Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture is also slated to attend the Games pending travel restrictions.

“I want to congratulate these hardworking individuals for this momentous achievement. It is even more exciting knowing that we have athletes, through their hard work, who are poised to compete for medal and I plan to be there to cheer them along waving our Virgin Islands flag. I wish all our athletes well; we are extremely proud of you!” said the Dr. The Honourable Minister Wheatley.

Daily updates will be posted on the BVIOC social media platforms on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and reports will be disseminated to media from the BVIOC PRO, Sofia Fay, Broadsword Communications, who will be in Tokyo to cover the VI’s athletes.

Filed Under: Athletics, BVI Olympic Committee, chantel malone, Eldred Henry, Elinah Phillip, IOC, Kyron McMaster, Swimming, Tahesia Harrigan-Scott, Tokyo 2020 Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,
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