Sailing – Page 2

VI (UK) ILCA7 (Laser) sailor Thad Lettsome secures spot at Paris 2024 Olympic Games – becomes first BVI sailor at Olympics since 1996!

May 7, 2024 by Admin

ILCA7 (Laser)sailor Thad Lettsome, who qualified for the Pan American Games at the 2023 San Salvador CAC Games at the time this photo was taken, wil represent the Virgin Islands (UK) at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games after securing a Universality Place. *Photo: BVIOC/Chris Watters*

The BVI Olympic Committee today received and accepted an official invitation from the Tripartite Commission in collaboration with World Sailing, for the allocation of a Universality Place at the Paris 2024 Summer Olympic Games to BVI’s ILCA7 (Laser) sailor, Thad Lettsome. At 22 years old, Lettsome becomes the first BVI sailor to compete at an Olympic Games since 1996 when 2x Olympian Robby Hirst competed in the Laser event at the Atlanta Games.

The BVIOC and Chef de Mission for Paris 2024, Tahesia Harrigan-Scott received the official invitation via email. Lettsome was one of 3 sailors eligible for the two available spots for the Universality Place. Competing at The Last Chance Regatta in Hyères, France (April 21-27), Lettsome placed 31 out of 61 sailors to edge up his rankings.

“This is an historic occasion for the Virgin Islands, the Royal BVI Yacht Club and for the BVI Olympic Committee,” said BVIOC President Ephraim Penn. “One of our mandates is to increase the number of sports represented at major Games. Through Olympic Solidarity and Panam Sports funding, the BVIOC has supported the development of sailing and Thad’s progression for several years and today we have reached an incredible milestone with the offer of a Universality Place at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games for a BVI sailor.

“We commend Thad, his parents, Lisa and Clyde Lettsome as well as his scholastic, collegiate and national sailing coaches throughout his young career, including Richard Wooldridge, Chris Watters and RBVIYC Administrator Tamsin Rand for their dedication and continued commitment to succeed in the sport and represent our nation at the highest level.”

“The Royal BVI Yacht Club is over the moon for Thad!” said RBVIYC Commodore Eddie Brockbank. “Since his first days learning to sailing with us he has shown talent, commitment and determination to reach his goals. We are delighted to have BVI sailing represented at the Olympic Games again and could not be more proud to support Thad at this incredible opportunity. The support from the BVIOC, PanAm Sports, World Sailing, Olympic Solidarity and the BVI Government are crucial to the continued development of our athletes and we are sincerely grateful to everyone who has been a part of this journey.”

Lettsome, who has been competing as a sailor for the Virgin Islands since he was 6 years old, joins Kyron McMaster (400m hurdles) as a confirmed BVI athlete set to compete at Paris 2024.

Lettsome and McMaster are members of the BVIOC’s current roster of elite athletes benefiting from the Tahesia Harrigan-Scott Elite Athlete Scholarship programme.

Funds from the THSEAS are entirely dedicated to the development of the BVIOC’s elite athletes identified by their respective National Federations and confirmed by the International Federations as being on track to compete for medals at major Games. The roster of athletes each receive a monthly stipend to assist them on their journey to the Olympics. The fund distribution is documented in regular reports for Olympic Solidarity and PanAm Sports who provide $200,000 towards the programme.

Other athletes in the THSEAS programme include national and regional record holders with proven track records in major Games – Chantel Malone (long jump), Eldred Henry (shot put), Rikkoi Brathwaite (100m) and Adaejah Hodge (200m).

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.

Major sponsors who committed to support the THSEAS earlier in the year include Clarence Thomas Ltd (CTL), DLT Solutions, Conyers, Capriccio di Mare Trattoria, National Bank of the Virgin Islands, Mrs. Vivian Lloyd and Trident Trust.

Filed Under: BVI Olympic Committee, Olympic Solidarity, Panam Sports, Paris 2024, Sailing, Tahesia Harrigan-Scott Elite Athlete Scholarship, Thad Lettsome

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 Admin

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

4 athletes confirmed for Santiago 2023 PanAm Games

October 17, 2023 by Admin

Four athletes are officially confirmed as members of the team who will represent the Virgin Islands (UK) in track and field and sailing at the 2023 Pan American (PanAm) Games. The 19th edition of the Games takes place October 20 – November 5, 2023 in Santiago, Chile. The BVI Olympic Committee named Eldred Henry (shot put), Djimon Gumbs (discus throw), Deya Erickson (100m hurdles) and Thad Lettsome (men’s ILCA 7 laser) as registered to compete.

Erickson will be the flag bearer for the VI at the Opening Ceremony on October 20.

This will be Henry and Lettsome’s second Panam Games appearance and the first for Gumbs and Erickson.

The schedule for the track and field events starts on October 30 when Gumbs will compete in the discus throw at 6:40pm EST. Erickson competes in the 100m hurdles heats at 5:45pm EST on October 31 with Henry competing in the shot put at 4:25pm EST on November 3.

The track and field events take place at the Coliseo del Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez, Ñuñoa, Región Metropolitana.

Lettsome’s races will take place 11:00am – 5:30pm at Cofradia Nautica del Pacífico in the Valparaiso region, October 28 – November 5.

Mark Chapman is the Chef de Mission for Santiago 2023.

“This is the VI’s 11th Pan Am Games. We have competed in each of the Games since the 9th edition. The event will be the last of the season for our athletes and I am satisfied that the Games’ organisers have put in all efforts to provide comfortable accommodations and good competition venues,” said Chapman.

“It has been a long season for all team members, and we congratulate them on securing spots at the Games,” said BVIOC President Ephraim Penn. “It’s the last major competition of the year before the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and we wish our athletes well.”

Penn will be in Chile for the PanAm Sports AGM ahead of the Games which he will attend not just as President of the BVIOC, but also as a member of the PanAm Sports Technical Commission.

Approximately 6,909 participants from 41 countries in the Caribbean and Americas are expected to compete in 39 sports. The Games provide an opportunity for competitiors to qualify for Paris 2024. The Games will be streamed live on the Panam Sports Channel on YouTube with news on our athletes provided by Kamal Haynes, 284 Media and Todd Van Sickle of the BVI Beacon.

Filed Under: Athletics, BVI Olympic Committee, Deya Erickson, Djimon Gumbs, Eldred Henry, PanAM Games, Panam Sports, Sailing, Santiago 2023, Thad Lettsome Tagged With: #teambvi, BVI Olympic Committee, Santiago 2023, Santiago 2023 Pan American Games

ILCA 7 laser sailor Thad Lettsome qualifies for Santiago 2023 Pan American Games at San Salvador 2023 CAC Games

July 2, 2023 by Admin

ILCA 7 laser sailor Thad Lettsome qualifies for Santiago 2023 Pan American Games after placing 6th overall at San Salvador 2023 CAC Games. Photo credit: Chris Watters

The San Salvador 2023 CAC Games regatta marks a major accomplishment for a BVI sailor. It is the first time since 1993 that the BVI is represented at the CAC Games and is also the first time this century where a sailor has officially qualified for a place in the Pan American Games. Robbie Hirst was the last sailor to qualify and compete for the BVI at the Pan Am Games where he placed 7th in the 1995 Games in Mar Del Plato, Argentina.

The report presents a day-by-day account of Thad’s road to historic success at the 24th CAC Games.

Day One
The first day of the ILCA 7 men’s single-handed event at the San Salvador 2023 CAC Games started off with a fleet of 16 ILCA 7 lasers racing in light and tricky conditions. Thad would manage to get off the start line clean and sail a conservative first leg, rounding the top mark in 5th position. A large wind shift to the right on the second upwind would put Thad on his back foot. However, with a speedy downwind to finish the race, he would end up in 8th overall.

In race two, the wind built to an unexpected 14-15knots and Thad would take an aggressive approach on the start to be the first one off the line at the race committee end. This allowed him to tack out cleanly and go to the right hand side of the race course. With a few missed shifts at the top mark, Thad would fight back hard to pass boats on the last downwind, finishing in 9th position.

With just 1 spot left for the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games in Chile this fall, Thad lies in 3rd position to qualify and 8th overall in the regatta after day 1. With 10 more races scheduled over the next 5 day

Day Four
Finally we race! After 2 days of no wind, and no races, the race committee was able to get off two quality races in light to building conditions.

In the first race of the day, Thad would get off to a slow start after being held back initially by debris getting stuck on his center board and rudder. After a hard fought 3rd leg (second upwind) Thad would mount a comeback and see him finish 6th in race 3 of the regatta.

In the second race of the day, the breeze built to a solid 12-14knts. Thad would have a great start, and execute his plan to go up the right side of the course to round the top mark in 2nd position. After a great downwind he would maintain the 2nd position for the last upwind, only to see a small right shift send him back 2 places yet still finish the race with a 4th overall, his best score out of the 4 races to date.

More importantly, Thad now sits 6th overall, and 1st in line to grab the 1 Pan American Games Qualification spot to represent BVI at the Santiago 2023 Pan Am Games this fall in Chile. With over 10 countries fighting for this 1 spot, Thad has placed himself in a great position leading up to the last 2 days of the event.

Day Six
With just two points separating Thad from the remaining competitors who were seeking Pan Am qualification, the racing was sure to be the hardest yet of the week with the Cuban, United States Virgin Islands, Mexico and Antigua all within grasp of the one spot.

In the first race of the day, Thad would get a good start and remain in front of the elite group, with the exception of the USVI sailor.

Going into the second race of the day, the wind built to a steady 15-17 knots. The race committee was able to get off a clean start and Thad would put his best race of the series down with a solid 2nd place overall for race number 8 of the series.

With Thad’s 2nd place, it would mathematically ensure that no one could claim the Pan Am qualification spot moving forward, and also put Thad into 5th place overall.

However, with the race committee squeezing in 1 final race just seconds before the cut off time, it would come down to who beats who for the 5th overall. A close battle with the Guatemalan sailor saw Thad just slip back 1 point away from 5th overall and finish the regatta 6th overall – just a single point out.

Thad competed in the Lima 2019 Pan Am Games in Peru after receiving a universality place at age 19. His performance at Lima qualified him for the Cali 2021 Junior Pan Am Games in Colombia.

The Santiago 2023 Pan Am Games, which take place October 25 – November 5 in Chile, will also serve as a continental qualifier for the 2024 Olympics with 2 spots available for North American sailors!

Filed Under: BVI Olympic Committee, CAC, PanAM Games, Sailing, San Salvador 2023, Santiago 2023, Thad Lettsome Tagged With: CAC Games, ILCA 7, Pan Am Games, San Salvador 2023, Santiago 2023 Pan American Games, Thad Lettsome

Community Learns, Moves and Discovers at 4th annual Sports Festival celebrating Olympic Day

June 28, 2023 by Admin

Adults and children celebrated Olympic Day with activities on Tortola, Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke on Saturday, June 24.

The 4th annual free Sports Festival organised by the BVI Olympic Committee (BVIOC) took place at the A. O. Shirley Grounds. The morning event, featuring 14 activity stations hosted by National Federations and the BVI Heritage Dancers, was abuzz with excitement and energy. Moving from one sport to the next, attendees of all ages and abilities shot, ran, pitched, dunked, cycled, volleyed, side-stepped, kicked and danced their way around the field.

BVIOC 1st Vice President Sabinah Clement opened the morning with the “Let’s Move” invitation from International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach. The call was to discover an inspiring activity to incorporate as a daily movement to optimise physical and mental wellbeing.

“Olympic Day is an annual celebration focused on improving the quality of life of our community. The annual Sports Festival, brought to life by our national federations, and the events across the sister islands hosted by LTAD ambassadors, provide a window of opportunity for everyone to move together and discover an array of activities from walking to dancing for a happier and healthier lifestyle,” said Ms. Clement. “I encourage you to use the morning to learn, move and discover.”

His Excellency the Governor Mr. John Rankin leant his voice to the call to action, citing in particular his support of events that get the youth engaged and active. Highlighting the remarkable achievements of the sports-men and -women of the Virgin Islands, Governor Rankin made special mention of 400m hurdles Commonwealth champion Kyron McMaster, sprint phenomenon Adaejah Hodge and the NBA draft D’Moi Hodge recently signed to the L.A. Lakers – the roll call indicating an unusual wealth of talent per capita to be discovered and developed starting at events such as the Sports Festival.

BVIOC Athlete Representative and Athletes’ Association Chair, Olympian Ashley Kelly echoed the encouragement to get active.

Participating National Federations included the Virgin Islands Archery Association, BVI Athletics Association, BVI Basketball Federation in collaboration with Mr. Milton McClean, BVI Cycling Federation, BVI Rugby Football Union, BVI Royal Yacht Club for sailing, Virgin Islands Softball/Baseball Association, BVI Squash Rackets Association, Boynes Taekwondo Academy, BVI Triathlon Federation and the Virgin Islands Volleyball Association. The Netball association also was represented while the BVI Heritage Dancers participated for the first time this year. Each station host reported signing up new recruits to their sport and dance troupe.

Dr. Harlan Vanterpool and Dr. Ryan Kelly, representing the BVI National Anti-Doping Commission, were in attendance to speak on the anti-doping regulations and clean sports.

The San Salvador 2023 CAC Games’ 9 athletes and coaches attending the first major Games of the year were also acknowledged and congratulated on making the team. In person at the Sports Festival were the Gumbs twins – Djimon (shot put and discus) and Diamante (discus) and Ritseeniyah Georges (compound archery), who all make their first appearances at a CAC Games. The VI will also be represented in track and field by Olympian Eldred Henry, Rikkoi Brathwaite, Beyonce Defreitas, Deya Erickson and Jaleel Croal and ILCA 7 laser sailor Thad Lettsome.

The Trident 10K Championship and Olympic Day 10k, 5k and 1k Race kicked off at 6:30am on Tortola as the community on Virgin Gorda took part in a walk/run followed by a friendly game of softball. Early risers joined in a roundtrip walk from Great Harbour to White Bay on Jost Van Dyke.

BVIOC President, Ephraim Penn, who was in El Salvador for the Centro Caribe Sports AGM ahead of the opening of the 24th CAC Games, acknowledged the contributions of the station hosts, sponsors and event supporters for a successful day. “The Executive Board is pleased with the collaborative effort between the BVIOC, National Federations and community groups to celebrate Olympic Day and act in unity for the greater good,” said Mr. Penn.

Sponsors and supporters included Road Town Wholesale, distributor of Coca-Cola products Dasani water and Powerade, and the National Bank of the Virgin Islands.

Olympic Day was established in 1948 as an annual occasion where everyone everywhere can get together in their communities to celebrate the Olympic values of Respect, Excellence, Friendship and Peace while celebrating the Olympic Day pillars: move, learn discover together for peace.

Browse the full gallery of photos on Facebook.

Filed Under: Archery, Ashley Kelly, Athletics, Basketball, BVI Anti-Doping Commission, BVI Olympic Committee, BVIOC Athletes' Commission, CAC, Cycling, LTAD, Milton McLean, Olympic Day, Rugby, Sailing, Softball-Baseball, Squash, Taekwondo, Volleyball Tagged With: BVI National Federations, BVI Olympic Committee, Olympic Day, Sports Festival

9 athletes to represent Virgin Islands in 3 sports at San Salvador 2023 CAC Games

June 21, 2023 by Admin

The British Virgin Islands Olympic Committee (BVIOC) has confirmed that 9 athletes from 3 sports will represent the Virgin Islands at the 24th Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games in San Salvador, El Salvador from June 23 – July 8, 2023.

The team comprising 4 track and 3 field athletes, 1 sailor and 1 archer will arrive in El Salvador between June 22 and July 1 ahead of their events. Chef de Mission, Gloria Fahie arrives in San Salvador on June 21 ahead of the athletes in preparation for their arrival. BVIOC President Ephraim Penn is in San Salvador to attend the Centro Caribe Sport AGM before the Opening Ceremony.

“This year’s CAC Games are seen as an important qualifying and ranking opportunity for athletes from all sports we can expect to see some tough competition,” said President Penn. “It will be the first time that archery will be represented at these Games and the second time for sailing since 1993 in Ponce, Puerto Rico. Athletics has seen representation since the VI’s first participation in the CACs in 1982 and has included softball, squash, triathlon and cycling. This historic achievement for archery is a promising trajectory for the development of different sports in the Territory and brings to fruition one of the BVIOC’s missions for this quadrennial to have more sports compete at major Games.”

Laser sailor Thad Lettsome, competing in the ILCA 7 men’s single person dinghy event, is the first of the VI’s team to compete when the sailing events start on Saturday, June 24 at Lake Ilpongo. Lettsome is also selected to be the flag bearer at the Opening Ceremony on Friday, June 23.

Archer Ritseeniyah Georges will compete in the Women’s Compound Individual starting Sunday, July 2 at 9:00am at the Polígono de Tiro con Arco Ciudad Merliot.

Track athletes include Rikkoi Brathwaite in the 100m semi-finals starting at 5:00pm and Beyonce Defreitas in the 100m semi-finals starting at 5:30pm on Monday, July 3; Deya Erickson in the 100m hurdles semi-finals starting at 5:45pm, Tuesday, July 4; Jaleel Croal in the 200m semi-finals starting at 5:00pm and Beyonce Defreitas in the 200m semi-finals starting at 5:30pm on Wednesday, July 5.

The all-men field athletes comprise Olympian Eldred Henry and twins Djimon and Diamante Gumbs. Henry and Djimon Gumbs will compete in the shot put final on Monday, July 3 starting at 5:25pm. Djimon and Diamante Gumbs will compete in the discus final on Wednesday, July 5 starting at 6:55pm.

While San Salvador 2023 will be the first CAC Games for 7 of the athletes, it will be the second appearance for Henry, who won the territory’s first shot put medal in a CAC games when he placed 3rd with a distance of 20.18m at Barranquilla 2018 and for Erickson who made her debut at the same games in the 100m hurdles.

In addition to the Chef de Mission Gloria Fahie and President Penn, the VI delegation to San Salvador 2023 includes Erwin “Redz” Telemaque (athletics coach), Winnette Lawrence (archery coach), Xavier Buxo (archery technician), Chris Watters (sailing coach) and Chester James (Physiotherapist).

The VI will be one of 37 countries represented at the CAC Games. The games, under the auspices of Centro Caribe Sports, will feature 57 disciplines in 37 sports taking place over 16 days. The Games, under the theme “It’s time to transcend”, will be broadcast live on the Centro Caribe Sports Channel on YouTube.

The CAC Games are the oldest continuous running regional games dating back to 1926. Held every four years, the Games typically host competitors from countries in Central America, the Caribbean, Mexico, Bermuda and the South American countries of Suriname, Guyana, Colombia and Venezuela. The San Salvador 2023 Games were originally slated to be held in Panama in 2022. 30 sports will take place in El Salvador and 7 will take place in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

The CAC Games are considered the starting point of international competition for athletes from the region who are seeking to represent their countries at the Olympic level. They are designed to provide a step between sub-CAC region Games held the first year following a Summer Olympics and the Pan American Games, which are held before the Summer Olympic. The next Pan American Games are slated to take place in Santiago, Chile October 20 – November 5, 2023.

More information on the San Salvador 2023 Games can be found on their website.

Follow the BVIOC page on FaceBook for regular updates and results.

Filed Under: Archery, Athletics, BVI Olympic Committee, CAC, Eldred Henry, Sailing, Softball-Baseball, Squash, Thad Lettsome, Triathlon Tagged With: Beyonce DeFreitas, BVI Athletics Association, BVI Olympic Committee, CAC Games, Deya Erickson, Diamante Gumbs, Djimon Gumbs, Eldred Henry, Jaleel Croal, Rikkoi Brathwaite, ritseeniyah Georges, Royal BVI Yacht Club, San Salvador 2023, Thad Lettsome, Virgin Islands Archery Association

“Let’s Move” invitation to 4th annual Sports Festival and walk/runs celebrating Olympic Day

June 12, 2023 by Admin

The BVI Olympic Committee (BVIOC) in collaboration with its member National Federations will host the 4th free annual Sports Festival at the A.O. Shirley Recreation Grounds from 9:00am – 12:00pm on Saturday, June 24. The event will be preceded by the Trident Trust Championship and Olympic Day race with a 10k, 5k and 1k run/walk starting from the grounds at 6:30am. Walks will take place on Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke at 6:30am and at 5:30am respectively.

The roundtrip walk/run from the recreational field in Spanish Town to the Baths will culminate with a friendly softball game on the fields on Virgin Gorda. For people on Jost Van Dyke, the dawn walk will start from the Albert Chinnery Administration Building in Great Harbour to the Soggy Dollar parking lot in White Bay and return to Great Harbour.

The events across the islands will mark Olympic Day which is internationally recognised each year on June 23. This year, the International Olympic Committee has themed the event “Let’s Move”.

The world is moving faster than ever, but people are moving less. Research has found that one in four adults and over 80% of young people are not able to meet the recommended minimum activity levels needed for optimum health (WHO, 2022).

“Encouraging physical activity throughout the wider community is one of the remits the BVIOC has been working on through the Long Term Athlete Development programme,” said Mr. Ephraim Penn, President of the BVIOC. “Our Olympic Day celebrations through the Sports Festival has embraced the concept of helping people of all ages and abilities to move by finding an activity that appeals to them. Walking is also an activity that’s easy to do and the community walks help to remind people of the pleasure and satisfaction of that exercise. We are pleased that our LTAD partners in Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke are helping to promote the message.”

The walk/runs on VG, JVD and the early morning run/walk on Tortola hosted by the BVI Runners, the road racing affiliate of the BVIAA, is a traditional global Olympic Day event.

The collaboration on Tortola with the different National Federations, the National Anti-Doping Commission, the Public Health Unit and, new for this year, the BVI Heritage Dancers, provides an opportunity for the public on Tortola to combine discovering an activity that they can engage in, understand what is meant by “clean sports” and learn about optimizing their nutritional intake.

The morning will feature interactive stations suitable for adults and children alike. Skills can be tested in archery, athletics, basketball, cycling, football, rugby, sailing, softball, squash, taekwondo, triathlon and volleyball. Director of Culture, Dr. Katherine Smith will provide insight to the history of the dances to be taught by the BVI Heritage Dancers. Olympian and chair of the BVI Athletes’ Commission, Ashley Kelly will run an outdoor fitness circuit and host Olympian Q & A sessions. Dr. Harlan Vanterpool, Chief Anti-doping Officer will speak about clean sport and the importance of understanding prescription and over the counter medication as well as the impact of recreational drug usage. Ms. Patrice Maduro of the Public Health Unit will be providing guidance on health and nutrition.

Free Olympic Day tee shirts on registration and subject to availability and complimentary Coca Cola products Dasani water, and Powerade will be provided courtesy of Road Town Wholesale.

In the run up to Sports Festival and in marking Olympic Day values, National Federations are hosting training sessions which the public are welcome to join in as follows:
·       Archery at the HLSCC, Paraquita Bay – 1:00pm – 5:00pm on Saturday, June 17 and Sunday June 18.
·       Athletics at the A.O.Shirley Recreation Grounds 1:00pm – 5:00pm on Saturday, June 17;
·       Squash will host an open session with visiting professional players at the Tortola Sports Club starting at 3:30pm on Monday, June 19.
·       Rugby will have a training session with visiting professional rugby player, ex All Black, Norm Maxwell at 6:00pm on Wednesday, June 21 at the A.O. Shirley Recreation Grounds.
·       Taekwondo will host open sessions for youths Monday, June 19 through Thursday, June 22 at 3:30pm – 4:30pm and 5;00pm:45pm – 6:45pm. Adult sessions will take place on Monday and Thursday, 7:00pm – 8:00pm.
More information on these sessions can be sought from the National Federations whose contact details can be found on www.bviolympics.org.

Olympic Day was established in 1948 as an annual occasion where everyone everywhere can get together in their communities to celebrate the Olympic values of Respect, Excellence, Friendship and Peace while celebrating the Olympic Day pillars: Move. Learn. Discover.

Filed Under: Archery, Ashley Kelly, Athletics, Basketball, BVI Anti-Doping Commission, BVI Olympic Committee, BVIOC Athletes' Commission, Cycling, Football, IOC, LTAD, Olympic Day, Rugby, Sailing, Softball-Baseball, Squash, Taekwondo, Volleyball Tagged With: #letsmove, BVI National Federations, BVI Olympic Committee, BVI Sports Festival, Olympic Day

Athletes, coaches and medics benefit from Anti-Doping and Sports Nutrition Workshop

December 6, 2022 by Admin

National Federations, athletes, coaches, medics and volunteers benefited from the BVI Olympic Committee (BVIOC) free Anti-Doping and Sports Nutrition Workshop held in the Eileen Parsons Auditorium at the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, Tortola on Saturday morning, December 3. An anti-doping presentation was made in the evening at the Bregado Flax Educational Center on Virgin Gorda on Friday, December 2.

The workshops, supported by Olympic Solidarity, were held in collaboration with the Caribbean Regional Anti-Doping Organisation (RADO), head quartered in Barbados and the Ministry of Health and Social Development through its Public Health Unit (PHU).

In brief remarks at the opening of the workshop at the HLSCC Mr. Ephraim Penn, President of the BVIOC said, “In recent years, the BVI has produced 2 Olympic finalists, a two-times Commonwealth Games and Diamond League Champion and a junior track and field phenomenon which has brought us to the attention of international organisations such as the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

“As both the National Olympic Committee and the National Anti-Doping Commission, we need to educate our national federations and their member athletes, coaches, parents and volunteers on the processes and expectations for clean sport since lack of knowledge is not accepted as an excuse in the event of a violation.”

President Penn also highlighted the importance of combining athletic performance with a healthy diet for optimal results. Honourable Marlon Penn, Minister for Health and Social Development expounded on the topic in his remarks.

“The Ministry for Health and Social Development, through its Public Health Unit, has an agenda that seeks to combat non-communicable diseases in the community and to encourage healthier lifestyles through physical activity and a diet rich in nutritional food. As athletes, it is even more important that you receive the right information that will help you to choose the right food that will help you maximise your output for the results you hope to achieve. I am pleased that the Ministry is positioned to provide this guidance.”

The educational workshops explained the anti-doping rules and regulations that guide WADA’s mandate for clean sports in all competitions sanctioned by the International Olympic Committee. They included an introduction to the Anti-Doping Education and Learning Platform (ADEL) – the centralised platform offering educational solutions for athletes and coaches – and ADAMS (the Anti-Doping Administration and Management System) for processing and entering data in all anti-doping issues. ADAMS is used by athletes for submitting their whereabouts and can also be used to manage the application and recognition of Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUEs).

The engaging presentations were made by Ms. Marsha Boyce, Communications and Projects Coordinator for Caribbean RADO and Dr. Harlan Vanterpool MD, Chief Doping Control Officer for the BVI National Anti-Doping Commission.

“It was pleasing to see the enthusiasm and keen interest shown by participants during our interactive Clean Sport Workshops in Virgin Gorda and Tortola,” said Ms. Boyce who flew in from Barbados for the events. “Education is crucial to the success of the Clean Sport movement. It’s important for all athletes and athlete support personnel, for example coaches, managers, physios and doctors to be exposed to the right information and to have access to the relevant resources in the fight against doping in sport. We at the Caribbean Regional Anti-Doping Organization look forward to our continued partnership with the British Virgin Islands Olympic Committee in support of its anti-doping programme.”

Building on the long-standing relationship with the Ministry of Health and Social Development to promote Long Term Athlete Development and health through physical literacy, the BVIOC worked with Ms. Patrice Maduro, Public Health Nutritionist and Ms. Harmonie Brewley-Massiah, National Epidemiologist of the Ministry’s Public Health Unit to share critical information on sports nutrition.

“We are keenly aware that BVI’s athletes need guidance and information on nutrition and to be able to make the distinction between good and bad – or ‘mal’ – nutrition,” said Ms. Brewley-Massiah and Ms. Maduro. “The session with the attendees – both adults and juniors – was not just an opportunity to share information but also a chance for us to get a measure of the level of awareness and dietary practices of this segment of the community. We plan to conduct more of these interactive programmes with athletes and to make sure that they have access to the support and resources to build and maintain a healthy diet that will lead to optimal physical and mental performance both on the field of play and at work or college.”

The session at the HLSCC was attended by representatives for archery, athletics, basketball, cycling, football, netball, sailing, softball/baseball, taekwondo and volleyball. In Virgin Gorda, the presentation was attended by coaches for athletics, basketball, cricket, football, softball and volleyball. Attendees across the board were enthusiastic and appreciative of the new information learned by the sessions.

“This was a really good workshop. We’ve learned a lot and we feel better prepared for what’s to come as we look towards entering the international competition arena in 2023,” said Sahbumnim Olanzo Boynes of Boynes Taekwondo Academy.

Clean sport and nutrition workshops respectively conducted by Dr. Harlan Vanterpool and the PHU can be arranged through the BVIOC. Contact 541-7845 for further information.

Filed Under: Archery, Athletics, Basketball, BVI Anti-Doping Commission, BVI Olympic Committee, BVIOC Athletes' Commission, Caribbean RADO, Cycling, Football, LTAD, Olympic Solidarity, Physical Literacy, Regional Anti-Doping Organization, Sailing, Softball-Baseball, Taekwondo, Volleyball Tagged With: Anti-Doping, Bvi national anti doping organisation, BVI Olympic Committee, Caribbean RADO, Olympic Solidarity, Public Health Unit, Sports Nutrition

Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay brings unity through community in the BVI – Full Report

May 11, 2022 by Admin

On May 3 and 4, the BVI Olympic Committee (BVIOC) in its capacity as the Commonwealth Games Association (BVICGA) hosted the Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay in the Virgin Islands (UK). The Queen’s Baton toured communities on Tortola and Virgin Gorda heralding the upcoming Commonwealth Games which will be held in Birmingham, UK from July 28 to August 8, 2022.

The Queen’s Baton arrived from Dominica into the Terrence B. Lettsome International Airport on Monday, May 2 and was presented by Ms. Korlita Hamilton of the Dominica CGA to Mr. Ephraim Penn, President of the BVICGA.

The Welcome and Opening Ceremony on Tuesday, May 3 at the A. O. Shirley Recreation Games officially marked the start of Queen’s Baton Relay in the BVI with remarks by His Excellency Governor John Rankin, the Honourable Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley and Mr. Penn, and an explanation of the workings of the Queen’s Baton by Mr. Joe Chapman, Baton Manager and 4x Commonwealth Games squash player.

The ceremony started with the Althea Scatliffe Striders Drum Corps and the entrance of the Queen’s Baton brought in by past Commonwealth Games athletes to include Lindel “Chef” Hodge, Steve Augustine, Ralston “Grandfather” Henry, Tynelle Gumbs, Trevia Gumbs and Joe Chapman. It was followed by a programme of recitals and performances of cultural and heritage significance curated by Dr. Katherine Smith, Director of the Department of Culture and presented by Poet Laureate Dr. Richard Georges, President of the HLSCC; author and poet Miss. Anika Christopher, Birmingham 2022 QBR Creative Programme Awardee; Mr. Phil Aspinall, MBE, Operations Manager, Virgin Islands Search & Rescue; the Comfoo Dance Ensemble; Leonora Delville Primary School; and the Razor Blades.

The relay through Road Town was started by the BVI Athletics Association Carifta 2022 athletes and Honourable Kye Rymer, District 5 Representative. The route followed a heritage trail and Baton handover stops starting from the Sugarworks Museum (Batonbearer D’Nila Thomas, student Althea Scatliffe Primary School), to the J. R. O’Neal Botanic Gardens (Batonbearer Ms. Vanessa King, O’Neal Webster), to the Sunday Morning Well (Batonbearer Mr. David Thomas, Clarence Thomas Ltd), to the E. Walwyn Brewley Ball Park (Batonbearers V I Softball Baseball Association), to the Elmore Stoutt High School (Batonbearer Jelani Croal, Grade 12, ESHS) to H.M. Prison Museum (Batonbearer Mr. Matthew Cowman, Walkers (BVI) Limited), to Midtown Restaurant (Batonbearers Caribbean Insurance Ltd), to the Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park (Batonbearers representatives of the BVI Bank Association), to the Waterfront Drive traffic lights (Batonbearers Coralisle Group), to Sir Olva Georges Plaza (Batonbearers Road Town Wholesale Trading Ltd) to the Adina Donovan Home for the Elderly (Batonbearer, Mrs. Vicki Francis, Governor’s Office) to the Old Government House Museum. Information was shared on the history of the location at each of the heritage and museum sites.

The Queen’s Baton was driven to the Ebenezer Thomas Primary School where it was met with vigorous enthusiasm by the students, staff and faculty. The relay to the Manuel Reef Marina was led by Batonbearers Honourable Julian Fraser, District 3 Representative, Mr. Milton McClean, Youth Sports leader, and Jehu Adams, Grade 6, ETPS. Adams handed the Baton over to Royal BVI Yacht Club sailing federation youth sailor, William Sanders and Mr. Jamel Davies, Chairman of the Tortola Sloop Foundation who sailed the Baton to the beach at Nanny Cay where it was handed over to Mr. Miles Sutherland-Pilch, General Manager, Nanny Cay Resort and Marina.

The afternoon visit included a stop at Carrot Bay to recognise the Stoutt family of fishermen – father Albert and sons Zacchari and Andrew – who continue to supply the local community and restaurants with fish and lobster caught in the traditional and sustainable way of seine and line fishing and free diving.

The Queen’s Baton was then welcomed at the Leonora Delville Primary School joined by student and teacher representation from the Jost Van Dyke Primary School and celebrated with dance and a symbolic relay around the school field with Batonbearers Frank Chinnery (JVDPS).

Day 1 of the relay concluded with a visit to the coal pit at Capoon’s Bay where the pit owner, Mr. Palett explained the process for preparing, generating and harvesting charcoal in the traditional way.

An evening reception hosted by the Governor was attended by the Carifta 2022 athletes, Commonwealth Games athletes and representatives of the National Federations.

The second and final day of the Queen’s Baton Relay saw the Queen’s Baton and accompanying delegation transported to Virgin Gorda courtesy of the Royal Virgin Islands Marine Police and H.M. Customs. The visit included a warm welcome reception organised by the Primary and Secondary schools of the Bregado Flax Education Center with remarks by Secondary Principal Hilroy George, Honourable Shereen Flax-Charles, Honourable Vincent Wheatley, District 9 Representative, and Mr. Penn. Presentations were performed by the Woodwind Ensemble, the BEFC Trio and the BFEC Lions and Arabians Cheerleaders.

A visit to the school’s Edible Garden of the Green Sprouts Eco Club managed by Green and Clean VI was followed by a relay led by Batonbearers, brothers Mekhi Water (Grade 12) and Audony Gangoo (Grade 5) from the school to the Green VI Eco Park where all guests were given a tour and overview of the work undertaken at the site by Green VI in association with Green VI Bug Out and which speak to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

The penultimate leg of the Queen’s Baton Relay took a route through East End and Long Look with heritage sites and handover stops starting at the Chapel Hill Methodist Church with a brief history shared by Dr. Lavon Chalwell-Brewely before Batonbearer Dean Greenaway led the relay to Penn’s Landing handing over to Honourable Marlon Penn, District 8 Representative.

From there the Queen’s Baton was run to the Willard Wheatley Primary School (Batonbearer Jacobi David) to the East End Police Station (Batonbearer Mrs. Sylvia Forbes) to the Francis Lettsome Primary School (Batonbearer Damir Dobson) to the Long Look Methodist Church and the Stickett where Batonbearer Mrs. Brenda Lettsome-Tye, Director Department of Youth Affairs and Sports led the relay to the Long Look Tennis and Education Center to hand over to the youth and senior Cycling Federation members who cycled the Queen’s Baton to the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College via YEP.

At the HLSCC, the Baton was handed over to Ms. Winnette Lawrence of the V I Archery Association who passed it on to Dr. Richard Georges, President of the HLSCC who handed over to the HLSCC Volleyball team. The Baton was then jogged across to the Maritime Museum by students of the Marine Studies before a handover to Phillipe Leroy, representing the BVI Triathlon Federation, who, followed by others, cycled the Queen’s Baton on the final leg of the relay which culminated at Brandywine Bay beach.

The Queen’s Baton Relay in the BVI was brought to a close when members of the BVI Rugby Federation received the Baton followed by handovers to the BVI Football Association and the VI Volleyball Association. Each of the three National Federations showcased their sports in demo games on the beach with a traditional-rules, tug-of-war refereed by Mr. Elmore Stoutt ending the sports before closing remarks by Mr. Penn, President of the BVICGA. The grand finale was a cultural presentation speaking to national heritage and the VI’s history and maritime connections. Attendees were entertained and educated by songs, dances and story-telling performed by the Zion Sounds, Ms. Bria Smith, the Comfoo Dance Ensemble, the Heritage Dancers, Mrs. Lettsome and Miss Rosie Smith.

The key stakeholders involved in the planning and hosting of events included the Governor’s Office, the Premier’s Office, the Ministry of Education, Culture Youth Affairs, Agriculture and Fisheries, the Departments of Culture, Education, and Youth Affairs and Sports, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force and the BVI Tourist Board.

Event sponsors include the BVI Banking Association – Banco Popular, Bank of Asia, CIBC FirstCaribbean, FirstBank, National Bank of the Virgin Islands, Republic Bank, and VP Bank – Caribbean Insurance Ltd, Clarence Thomas Ltd, Coralisle Insurance (BVI) Ltd, O’Neal Webster, Road Town Wholesale Trading Ltd, Walkers, Harneys and JOMA Properties.

National Federations, schools, and community and social groups supported the event as volunteers and participants in the relays through the districts.

The BVICGA has hosted four Queen’s Baton Relays since 2005, the last one being in 2017 ahead of the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games in Australia where Kyron McMaster made history by winning the territory’s first Commonwealth Games medal with a gold in the 400m hurdles.

The VI is expecting to take its largest contingent yet to the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games with 19 athletes representing the territory in 5 sports – a first for the nation. 3×3 Basketball (Women’s Team) and Cycling will make their debut at a Commonwealth Games as the teams join athletes from track and field, squash and swimming.

The 16th official Queen’s Baton Relay touring through 72 Commonwealth nations and Overseas Territories will cover a distance of 140,000 kilometres over 269 days, traveling to Europe, Africa, Asia, Oceania, the Caribbean and the Americas, before embarking on the final stretch of its journey across England for 25 days.

The Queen’s Baton Relay will complete its journey at the Opening Ceremony of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games on 28 July 2022. This is a traditional and fundamental part of the Games and the Opening Ceremony, as the final Batonbearer will pass the Baton back to The Queen. The Queen’s message to the Commonwealth will then be removed from the Baton and read aloud, marking the official start of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

Photos of the Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay touring the BVI can be seen on the BVIOC’s Facebook page.

Student Batonbearers:

Althea Scatliffe School (ASPS), Road Town, Tortola
D’Niya Thomas (Handover at the Sugarworks Museum, Day 1)
D’Niya has represented for several years for Inter-Primary Spors. She has been the Victrix for Inter-House and Inter-Primary as well.

Elmore Stoutt High School, Road Town, Tortola (Day 1)
Jelani Croal – Grade 12
Jelani was chosen because he is one of ESHS’ top athletes during the Inter-House competition and who went on to do very well at Carifta 2022

Ebenezer Thomas Primary School, Sea Cow’s Bay, Tortola (Day 1)
Jehu Adams – Grade 6
Jehu is a hard-working, dedicated, disciplined and helpful young man who is the top Grade Six student for the Advent and Trinity terms of the 2021-2022 school year. Along with his classmates, he is actively involved in the process of planting and maintaining the crops in the school’s garden. He is also very much involved in anything that would enhance the lives of his classmate. Jehu is often involved in peer tutoring within the classroom. He has specifically been assigned to assist and mentor one of the ESL students. He assists him with in-class tasks, projects and homework whenever necessary.
Additionally, during the Lent term, Grade Six had started a recycling project. Jehu was actively involved in collecting, sorting and recording the data for the materials. He along with another student took the materials to the school’s recycling bins.
Jehu has proudly and effectively represented his school at various competitions and other extracurricular activities. Presently, he and another student are preparing to represent the school at the national spelling bee competition. Jehu’s self-less attitude and commitment to learning are admirable and examples to his peers.

Leonora Delville Primary School, Capoon’s Bay, Tortola (Day 1)
Mijael Jennings (LDPS)
Kh’mahni Anthony (LDPS)
Frank Chinnery (Jost Van Dyke Primary School) – selected because he is an excellent athlete and the perfect representative for an event such as the Queen’s Baton Relay.

Bregado Flax Education Center, Virgin Gorda (Day 2)
BFEC Senior Division
Mekhi Water – Senior – Class of 2022
Mekhi is an all-round athlete excelling in Volleyball (BFEC) who also is the Football national U20 goalkeeper and of the VG United football club. He also is a Track and Field division winner. He is a diligent and committed student of the BFEC Senior School.

BFEC Primary Division
Audony Gangoo – Grade 5
Audony is one who we call a true Lion Ambassador. He puts his best foot forward in whatever he does. He is from a single parent home with 4 other siblings. This does not deter him from excelling in school, in sports and being one of our school ambassadors. Audony recently participated in the Inter-Primary Sports and ran in the 13+ category. Despite being pushed up to the older level, he persevered and came 2nd and 3rd in his races. He was determined to do his very best.

Currently, he is one of the top students in Grade 5, and he ensures that he continues is a positive influence for his peers.

Willard Wheatley Primary School, East End, Tortola (Day 2)
Jacobi David – Grade 6
Jacobi has grown into a positive student. He is a good athlete and displays good sportsmanship. He continues to represent the school well in sports and never refuses when he is asked to do something. He is a team player and as this is his final year at WWPS, we feel he deserves the honour of carrying the Baton.

Francis Lettsome Primary School, Greenland, Tortola (Day 2)
Damir Dobson – Grade 6
Damir is an enthusiastic 13-year-old, who excels in sports as one of his extracurricular endeavours. Damir is son to Earle Dobson and Glasmie Williamson. He represents his school at sporting events, and has been a top athlete, and proud Wildcat of FLPS, in Greenland, Tortola. Damir is the Francis Lettsome Primary School Wildcats’ 2022 Queen’s Relay Baton Bearer, because of his keen spirit, respectfulness, dedication to learning, willingness to help, community service, and pride in representing his school.

Filed Under: Archery, Athletics, Basketball, Birmingham 2022, BVI Commonwealth Games Association, Commonwealth Games, Cycling, Football, Joe Chapman, Kyron McMaster, Milton McLean, Rugby, Sailing, Softball-Baseball, Squash, Triathlon, Volleyball Tagged With: #QBR2022, Birmingham 2022, Birmingham 2022 Queen's Baton Relay, Queen's Baton Relay, Queen's Baton Relay in the BVI

Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay brings unity through community

May 11, 2022 by Admin

Scenes of the Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay in the communities on Tortola and Virgin Gorda

The BVI Olympic Committee (BVIOC) in its capacity as the Commonwealth Games Association (BVICGA) hosted the Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay in the Virgin Islands (UK) on Tuesday, May 3 and Wednesday, May 4.

The two-day event brought a perceptible positive energy at a time of political uncertainty in the territory. With a focus on celebrating culture, untold stories, heritage and traditions as well as the road to a sustainable-lifestyle future, the BVICGA worked closely with the Department of Culture and the Department of Education, Green VI and members of the community to deliver an engaging and elevating Queen’s Baton Relay as it toured communities on Tortola and Virgin Gorda.

“The Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay in the BVI delivered a most unexpected and welcome relief from troubled times during the two days that it toured our territory,” said Mr. Ephraim Penn, President pf the BVICGA. “The high energy and enthusiasm with which the Queen’s Baton was received by all who participated in the events were uplifting and encouraging as, once again, we see the power of sports in bringing the community together in shared hope. This did not go unnoticed by the Birmingham 2022 Global QBR organisers in the UK who shared with us that this was one of their favourite Queen’s Baton Relays!”

The Queen’s Baton arrived into the territory from Dominica on May 2 ahead of the official welcome and opening ceremony at the A.O. Shirley Recreation Grounds on May 3 when the Baton made its entrance in the hands of some of the BVI’s past Commonwealth Games athletes to include Lindel “Chef” Hodge, Steve Augustine, Ralston “Grandfather” Henry, Tynelle Gumbs, Trevia Gumbs and Joe Chapman.

Remarks by H.E. Governor John Rankin, Premier Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley and Mr. Ephraim Penn, President of the BVICGA and an explanation of the workings of the Queen’s Baton by Mr. Joe Chapman, Baton Manager and 4x Commonwealth Games squash player, were part of a programme featuring recitals and performances of cultural and heritage significance curated by Dr. Katherine Smith, Director of the Department of Culture and presented by Poet Laureate Dr. Richard Georges, author and poet Miss. Anika Christopher, Mr. Phil Aspinall, MBE, the Comfoo Dance Ensemble, Leonora Delville Primary School, and the Razor Blades.

The relay legs through Road Town included heritage and museum sites such as the Sugarworks Museum, J.R. O’Neal Botanic Gardens, the Sunday Morning Well, H.M. Prison Museum, Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park, Sir Olva Georges Plaza and Old Government House Museum. Information was shared on the history of the location at each of the sites.

The Queen’s Baton was driven to the Ebenezer Thomas Primary School, Sea Cow’s Bay from where it was run to Manuel Reef Marina and sailed aboard a Traditional Tortola Sloop and a Feva of the Royal BVI Yacht Club Sailing Federation youth racing fleet to the beach at Nanny Cay Resort and Marina.

An afternoon stop at Carrot Bay included a visit with the fishing family of Mr. Albert Stoutt and his sons Zacchari and Andrew, who continue to supply the local community and restaurants with fish and lobster caught in the traditional and sustainable way of seine and line fishing and free diving. All present were treated to an impromptu scratch band performance at the North Shore Shell Museum owned by Mr. Egbert “Shellman” Donovan.

The Queen’s Baton was welcomed by students, staff and faculty at the Leonora Delville Primary School and representatives from the Jost Van Dyke Primary School before the Day 1 relay ended with a visit to the coal pit at Capoon’s Bay where pit owner, Mr. Palett explained the process for preparing, generating and harvesting charcoal in the traditional way.

An evening reception hosted by the Governor was attended by the Carifta 2022 athletes, Commonwealth Games athletes and representatives of the National Federations.

On the morning of May 4, the Queen’s Baton and delegation arrived at the Bregado Flax Education Center in Virgin Gorda for a warm reception programme executed by the Primary and Secondary divisions with remarks by Principal Hilroy George, Hon. Shereen Flax-Charles, Representative at Large, and Hon. Vincent Wheatley, District 9 Representative and Mr. Penn.

A visit to the school’s Green Sprouts Edible Garden was followed by a relay to the Green VI Eco Park for a tour and overview of the work undertaken at the site by Green VI in association with Green VI Bug Out and which speak to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

The afternoon leg through East End and Long Look included Baton handover spots at national heritage sites of the Chapel Hill Methodist Church, the Long Look Methodist Church and the Stickett.

The Queen’s Baton Relay in the BVI was brought to a close with a sports showcase and a traditional-rules, tug-of-war refereed by Mr. Elmore Stoutt. The cultural finale entertained and educated through songs, dances and story-telling that spoke to national heritage and the VI’s history and maritime connections performed by the Zion Sounds, Ms. Bria Smith, the Comfoo Dance Ensemble, the Heritage Dancers, Mrs. Valerie Lettsome and Miss Rosie Smith.

The next stop for the Queen’s Baton Relay was St Kitts and Nevis as it makes its way back to the UK for the Opening Ceremony of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games on July 28.