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: , , , ,

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