Adaejah Hodge named Gatorade Florida Girls Track & Field Player of the Year

June 28, 2023 by

In its 38th year of honoring the nation’s best high school athletes, Gatorade today announced British Virgin Islands athlete Adaejah Hodge of Montverde Academy is the 2022-23 Gatorade Florida Girls Track & Field Player of the Year. Hodge is the first Gatorade Florida Girls Track & Field Player of the Year to be chosen from Montverde Academy and the Virgin Islands.

The award, which recognizes not only outstanding athletic excellence, but also high standards of academic achievement and exemplary character demonstrated on and off the field, distinguishes Hodge as Florida’s best high school girls track & field athlete. Now a finalist for the prestigious Gatorade National Girls Track & Field Player of the Year award to be announced in July, Hodge joins an elite alumni association of state award-winners in 12 sports, including Jasmine Moore (2018-19, Lake Ridge High School, Texas), Sydney McLaughlin (2016-17, 2015-16 & 2014-15, Union Catholic High School, N.J.), and Lolo Jones (1997-98, Roosevelt High School, Iowa).

The 5-foot-2 junior won the national championship in the 200-meter dash with a time of 22.64 seconds at the New Balance Nationals Outdoor this past season. Hodge’s best 200 time of the season of 22.60 seconds ranked No. 2 nationally among girls prep competitors this spring. Hodge ranked No. 3 nationally in the 100 (11.11) with both her 100 and 200 times ranking among the Top 10 clockings in girls prep history. This past winter, she set national high school and World Under-20 indoor records in the 200 breaking the tape in 22.33 at New Balance Nationals Indoor.

Hodge has volunteered locally with DreamPlex, which provides coaching for children with disabilities, and she’s donated her time to Habitat for Humanity, the Youth Impact Project and Adopt-A-Highway. “Adaejah Hodge took on an ambitious schedule throughout the year, consistently challenging herself against professional and college competitors in her quest to become one of the elite prep athletes of all time,” said Erik Boal, editor at DyeStat.com. “She clocked a historic time in the 200 this spring and turned in one of the most exceptional performances in World Under-20 history with her record-setting run in the 200 at the New Balance Nationals Indoor earlier this year.”
Hodge has maintained a 4.04 weighted GPA in the classroom. She will begin her senior year of high school this fall.

The Gatorade Player of the Year program annually recognizes one winner in the District of Columbia and each of the 50 states that sanction high school football, girls volleyball, boys and girls cross country, boys and girls basketball, boys and girls soccer, baseball, softball, and boys and girls track & field, and awards one National Player of the Year in each sport. The selection process is administered by the Gatorade Player of the Year Selection Committee, which leverages experts including coaches, scouts, media and others as sources to help evaluate and determine the state winners in each sport.

Hodge joins recent Gatorade Florida Girls Track & Field Players of the Year Alyssa Jones (2021-22, 2020-21, & 2019-20, Miami Southridge Senior High School) and Jan’Taijah Ford (2018-19, Northeast High School), among the state’s list of former award winners.

Filed Under: Athletics Tagged With: , , , ,

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

June 21, 2023 by

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: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Zara Brown places 4th in 100m semi-finals at Cali 2021 in season opener

November 30, 2021 by

Representing the Virgin Islands (UK) at the inaugural PanAm Junior Games in Cali, Colombia, Zara Brown finished 4th with a non-advancing time of 11.87 in her heat of the 100m semifinals today, November 30.

Speaking after the event, the 19-year old sprinter said “I feel okay about the race. As a season opener, it gives me a chance to see where I am and what I have to work on going forward – both for indoor and outdoor. It’s been a good experience for me and I can’t wait to be back!”

Coach Ralston Henry noted that this was Zara’s first race after being laid off for so long and a good race for opening the Season early. “I am looking forward to a lot more to come later in the Season and ahead of the Commonwealth Games,” he said.

8 competitors will race in the women’s 100m finals on December 1.

100m sprinter Jaleel Croal, Thad Lettsome, sailing the ILCA7 (Laser) in the men’s one person dinghy event, and the 3 x 3 Basketball team comprising D’Andre Mitcham, Stephano Paul, Michael Richardson, and Shakeem Tyson will all compete on December 2. Lettsome will be racing against some of the region’s best sailors aged between 17-22 from 14 countries. The 3 x 3 basketball team – who are placed in group A along with Colombia, Venezuela and Puerto Rico – will face Colombia in their first match.

Following the competitions of the day, the BVI Olympic Committee will host a virtual live chat with the BVI delegation in Colombia at 8:00pm on Thursday, December 2 and which will be streamed on the BVIOC Facebook page when all fans and supporters can tune in and post their questions to the athletes and coaches.

Filed Under: Athletics, BVI Olympic Committee, Cali 2021 Tagged With: , , ,

Shot putter Eldred Henry steps out of Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games due to elbow injury

June 29, 2021 by


Official Joint Statements Eldred Henry, BVI Athletics Association, BVI Olympic Committee

BVI shot putter Eldred Henry at the Doha 2019 World Athletics Championships. Photo credit: CM Farrington Photography

On Monday, June 28, 2021 national shot put champion and Olympian, Eldred Henry communicated with the BVI Athletics Association President, Mr. Steve Augustine to advise that, due to the recovery process from an injury in his right elbow, he would not be competing at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games this summer.

“It is with deep sadness that I have had to make the tough call not to compete in the upcoming Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in Japan this summer. The injury in the elbow of my throwing arm is one that has been an underlying issue for a few months but which was being treated and kept at bay through my pre-COVID-19 training regime which allowed me to compete at the beginning of this season. Unfortunately, the injury flared up during my warmup at the 2021 Track Meet on May 15 in South California and required further investigation including an MRI.

“The treatment and full recovery process requires more time than is left for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games and after consultation with my coach Tony Dougherty and doctors working on the treatment, I conferred with the BVIAA and BVI Olympic Committee and it was agreed that I would not compete in Japan and risk putting my athletic career in jeopardy. Instead I will concentrate on making a full and proper recovery to regain my optimal performance level for the future Games coming up in 2022 and leading up to Paris 2024. I am grateful for all the support I receive from both the BVIAA and the BVIOC and feel frustrated and disappointed not to be able to represent my country at the Olympics this year. I will be in daily contact with the athletes attending Tokyo 2020 and look forward to supporting the team all the way,” said Henry.

In his consultation with President Augustine, Henry explained that while the treatment is working, the recovery is still ongoing and that the technical functionality is not fully restored. While willing to compete if that was the consensus of the BVIAA and the BVIOC, it was clear that if Henry was to proceed with participating at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, the restrictions of the injury would impede his ability to throw at his best distances and he would risk further damage to his elbow and hand.

“Eldred Henry is clearly one of our leading athletes and I was very sorry to learn that the extent of his injuries will now take him off the roster for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. Our primary sympathies are with Eldred whose training and focus were geared towards the ultimate competition at these rescheduled Olympics. We know that in the best of conditions he would have done us proud and are in complete agreement that he should not compete while recovering from an injury that will directly affect his performance and possibly his future athletic career. We understand that the intensive treatment programme Eldred is undergoing is designed to deliver a solid result and we wish him all the best on his road to recovery and training to get him back on track for the upcoming competitions including the World Championships in Oregon, USA in July 2022 Oregon,” said Augustine.

In a letter dated June 28, 2021, the BVIAA officially notified the BVIOC that Henry would no longer be in the team of track and field athletes going to Tokyo 2020 this summer.

“The BVIOC and the Chef de Mission, Mrs. Tahesia Harrigan-Scott, as Team BVI’s Olympic family are very empathetic to Eldred’s situation and understand the frustration and disappointment that comes with making the final decision not to compete at an Olympic Games. Eldred has trained hard under challenging conditions. He told us that he was feeling at his peak in February 2020 and had been ready to impress in the summer of 2020. The pandemic had interrupted his training schedule and his competition level preparations and just as he was getting back on track, the latent injury put a stop to his programme.

“Eldred has impressed us with his resilience and dedication to his sport and his desire to represent his country with pride. He remains our top shot put athlete and we are proud of all that he has achieved thus far and know there is more to come under the continued training and guidance of his long-time coach, Anthony Dougherty. We will continue to support Eldred during his recovery period and his future focus on preparations for the upcoming major competitions including the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, the 2022 CACs, Santiago 2023 Panam Games and Paris 2024 Summer Olympic Games,” said Ephraim Penn, President of the BVIOC.

Henry was the first of the VI’s athletes to qualify for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games when he threw the shot put a distance of 21.47m.(70′ 5 1/4 “) at the Kingsville, Texas meet in 2019 to also secure the outdoor national, OECS, GMAC and NCAA DII records with his personal best throw. He also holds the indoor shot put national, OECS and NCAA DII records with a throw of 20.61m (60′ 7.5”). He is a CAC bronze medalist. His highest world men’s shot put ranking is #20 and is ranked #6 in the region.

Tokyo 2020 would have been Henry’s second Olympics with his first appearance at the Rio 2016 Games.

Filed Under: Athletics, BVI Olympic Committee, Eldred Henry, Tokyo 2020 Tagged With: , , ,

High jumping is in the air thanks to JOMA (Properties) Ltd

November 6, 2019 by
The BVI Athletics Association received High Jump equipment donated by JOMA (Properties) Ltd. during a brief handover ceremony at the A.O. Shirley Recreational Grounds on October 31. Photo: Cleave M Farrington/BVIAA

The BVI Athletics Association received High Jump equipment donated by JOMA (Properties) Ltd. during a brief handover ceremony at the A.O. Shirley Recreational Grounds on October 31.

CEO of JOMA (Properties) Ltd., Mr. Colin O’Neal was very pleased to purchase this high jump equipment when being approached since the previous equipment was destroyed two years ago post Hurricane Irma.

Mr. O’Neal commented, “we are happy that we were in a position to help the Association to replace the equipment that was lost through the effects of Hurricane Irma and our hope that this equipment will serve the community especially the young people for many years to come.”

Mr. O’Neal further stated “The aims and objectives of the BVI Athletics Association align with those of JOMA in our commitment to supporting useful community activities particularly for young people and especially in the sports such as track and field where there is a demonstrated level of organization and commitment and a record of success in regional and international competition.”

BVIAA President Steve Augustine in his remarks was extremely grateful and happy for the kind gesture of JOMA (Properties) Ltd. and the O’Neal family in donating a new High Jump Bed to the BVIAA. “We have been without the high jump bed since 2017 and now 2 years after, we have what we lost thanks to JOMA,” stated Mr. Augustine. “I trust and I hope that others will follow along the same trend in helping to shape and build lives in the field of sports as JOMA have done today,” Mr. Augustine further commented.

Mr. Augustine made mention of Mr. Karl Scatliffe and Chantel Malone who hold long outstanding records in high jump and challenged the young athletes to break those records.

Past BVIAA President Mr. Rey O’Neal provided further statistics of previous high jump athletes before handing over the equipment to the Association which was witnessed by the athletes and coaches.

Filed Under: Athletics Tagged With:

BVI 400m Hurdler Kyron McMaster out of Pan Am Games

July 31, 2019 by

Dean “The Sportsman” Greenaway
BVI Pan Am Games Media Contact

400m hurdler, Kyron McMaster clearing the first hurdle during the 2018 NACAC Championships in Toronto PHOTO: Dean “The Sportsman” Greenaway

LIMA, Peru – Ahead of the August 6 start of the track and field competitions at the 18th Pan Am Games now in progress in Lima, Peru, one of the BVI’s medal prospects – 400m hurdler Kyron McMaster – is out of the competition in which he would have made his games debut on opening day.

Confirmation came from both the BVI Athletics Association and BVI Olympic Committee Presidents, Steve Augustine and Ephraim Penn, in a joint statement after McMaster’s visited a specialist on Tuesday.

“It is well known that Kyron McMaster experienced some difficulties in his last Diamond League outing. Since then, he’s been seen by some of the best Sports Medicine Doctors,” Augustine said in a statement. “Currently receiving treatment, he’s already taking on light workouts and remains in good spirits about his health. With continued rest and treatment, he’s expected to compete in Doha. This of course means missing out on Pan Am.”

Augustine’s statement added: “Although the BVI will showcase one less athlete at the games, we are confident that our possibilities remain unchanged. Leading into the IAAF World Championships, we will continue to update the public on Kyron’s competition schedule.”

Meanwhile, the BVIOC who has direct responsibility for entering McMaster in the games, also confirmed that that he will not compete

“As from the BVIOC, we can confirm that he has an injury and will not be competing in the Pan Am Games,” Penn said in a statement. “Further, he is presently undergoing extensive treatment and we will advise the public accordingly.”

McMaster, who last faced the starter’s gun in his pet event during the London Anniversary Games on July 20 but did not complete the race, stopping after the first hurdle, said he had wanted to compete in the Pan Am Games.

“Due to circumstances it can’t be done, but we have no choice to be ready for Worlds in a short period of time,” McMaster said of the IAAF World Championships scheduled for Doha, Qatar, September 27 – October 6. “This will be the season to test my true athleticism.”

Additional Pan Am Games reports and interviews with Dean “The Sportsman” Greenaway, will be carried on CBN 90.9 FM at 5.00 p.m. through August 5th and then at 9.00 a.m., 2.00 p.m. and 9.00 p.m., from August 6 – 11. There’s a 9 a.m. wrap up on Aug 12.

Filed Under: Athletics, BVI Olympic Committee, Lima 2019, PanAM Games Tagged With: , , , ,

Four establish Carifta qualifiers during Dag Samuels Development series opener

January 16, 2019 by

By BVI Athletics Association

L-R – Diamante Gumbs, Jaleel Croal, Palesa Caesar and Djimon Gumbs established Carifta qualifiers during the Dag Samuels Development series opener Jan 12, 2019. Photo: BVIAA

The British Virgin Islands Athletics Association (BVIAA) held its first Dag Samuels Development Series to kick off the Track and Field season over the weekend. Four athletes established Carifta qualifiers during the opener namely:

Diamante Gumbs – 16.80m shot put (qualifying mark 16.75m)
Diamante Gumbs – 52.33m discus (qualifying mark 52.00m)
Jaleel Croal – 10.99 sec 100m (qualifying mark 11.25seconds)
Palesa Ceasar – 34.90m discus (qualifying mark 34.00m)
Djimon Gumbs – 54.10m discus (qualifying mark 52.00m)

“We are especially happy with the results of development meet #1. With a total of five qualifiers in four events at our first development meet, it’s clear that the road map to the 2019 Carifta Games is already being set,” noted BVIAA President, Steve Augustine.

Palesa Ceasar who was among four of the qualifiers, was highlighted by Mr. Augustine who said “special mention must also be made of new comer Palesa Ceasar, who worked extremely hard over the pre-season in the throwing events, solidifying her ability of making the BVI qualifying standard in the Discus throw at our first Development Meet.”

“Be it the Carifta Games qualifiers, personal bests marks or general competition, the meet proved memorable and indicative of a great season that lay ahead,” Mr. Augustine concluded.

Results from athletes overseas:

• Eldred Henry competed in his first indoor meet of the year in the Shot Put event with a throw of 19.44m setting a new school record, National Qualifier and NCAA division 2 leader.

 

Complete results of Dag Samuels Development Series Meet # 1:
12 January, 2019

Teams: Ambassadors Throwing Club (ATC), Fast Lane Track Club (FLTC), Raw Skillz Track Club (RSTC), Sprint Tech Track Club (STTC), Top Notch Track Club (TNTC), Unattached (UA)

SHOT PUT:
GIRLS U13 (6.6lbs/3 kilos): 1. Kijana Callwood (ATC), 9.66m. 2. Savianna Joseph (FLTC), 8.90m.
U15 (6.6lbs): 1. Palesa Caesar (ATC), 9.03m. 2. A’Keela McMaster (UA), 7.55m .
U17 (6.6lbs): 1. Alli-anna Davis (ST), 10.08m. 2. Alexa Hodge (FLTC), 8.82. 3. Empress Williams (ATC), 8.55m.

BOYS U17 (12lbs): 1. Orlando Douglas (ATC), 10.78m.
U20 (14lbs/6kilo): 1. Diamante Gumbs (TNTC), 16.80. 2. Djimon Gumbs (TNTC), 15.72.
OPEN (16lbs/7.26 kilo): 1. Deshoy Ward (ATC), 10.56.

DISCUS: (1 kilo)
GIRLS U13: 1. Kijana Callwood (ATC), 32.75m. 2. Savianna Joseph (FLTC), 27.38m.
U15: 1. Palesa Caesar (ATC), 34.90m.
U17: 1. Empress Williams (ATC), 23.16. 2. Alexa Hodge (ATC), 20.84m.

BOYS U15 (1.5kg): 1. Orlando Douglas (ATC), 40.50m.
U20 (1.75kg): 1. Djimon Gumbs (TNTC), 54.10. 2. Diamante Gumbs (TNTC), 52.33m. 3.

OPEN MALES (2 kilos): 1. Deshoy Ward (ATC), 35.50m.

60m:
GIRLS U9: 1. Destra Jack (FLTC Jr.), 10.97.

BOYS U9: 1. Christian Butler (FLTC Jr.), 10:36.

80m:
GIRLS U11: 1. Chelsea Edwards (FLTC Jr.), 11:53. 2. D’Niya Thomas (FLTC Jr.), 12:00. 3. Khaliah Hall (FLTCJr), 12:25. 4. Xambiah Demming (RSTC), 12:75. 5. Cianna Industrious (STTC), 13:39.

BOYS U11: 1. Tiondre Frett (STTC), 10:65. 2. Clariq Frett (FLTC Jr), 11:07. 3. Othniel Gillings (FLTC Jr), 11:25. 4. Ty’rique Charles (FLTC Jr), 12:00.

100m:
GIRLS U13: (wind +0.7) 1. Karliyah Morton (UA), 14:13. 2. Shannia Johnson (UA), 14:93.

BOYS U13: (w-1.7) 1. Jaheem Lennard-Joseph (FLTC Jr), 14:22. 2. Latriel Williams (STTC), 14:52.

GIRLS U15: (w+1.0) 1. Jahtivya Williams (STTC), 12.81. 2. Crystal Maximea (FLTC),13:05. 3. Jordanne Thomas (STTC), 13:31. 4. Vinesha John (STTC), 13:50. 5. Dejoie Sebastian (STTC), 13:81. 6 DiaMonae Thomas (STTC),14:57. 7. Monisha Martin (STTC), 14.75. 8. Kareena Shortte (STTC), 15:04.

BOYS U15: (w -1.1)1. Jabari Pemberton (FLTC), 13:27. 2. Antuwn Maduro (STTC), 13:46. 3. T’Khoy Stevens (RS),13:76. 4. Makelis Fergus (RS), 14:17. 5. Shakoi Maduro (RS), 15:83.

GIRLS U17: (w -1.9) 1. Abriel Magloire (FLTC), 13:26. 2. Kaelyaah Liburd (RS), 13:40. 3. Lia Claxton (RS), 13:97. 4. Glendy Knight (ST), 14:73.

BOYS U17: (w+0.5)1. Jaleel Croal (STTC), 10.99. 2. Shajoni Huggins(FLTC), 12.33. 3. Jamoi Roberts (STTC), 12.34.

OPEN MALES: (w+0.5)1. Joshua Lynch (STTC), 11.68.

Throwers 50m Dash
GIRLS: (w +1.2) 1. Alexa Hodge (FLTC), 7.98. 2. Alli-anna Davis (STTC), 8:05. 3. Savianna Joseph (FLTC), 9.56.

BOYS: (w +1.2) 1. Diamante Gumbs (TNTC), 7.59.

1500m
BOYS U17: 1. Jelani Croal (ST), 4:51.14. 2. Rashawn Jack (ST), 5:42.34. 3. Caleb Lynch (FLTC), 5:46.66

300m
GIRLS U11: 1. Chelsea Edwards (FLTC Jr), 50.57. 2.Khaliah Hall (FLTC Jr), 51:81. 3. D’Niya Thomas (FLTCJr), 58:70. 4. Cianna Industrious (STTC), 1:03.65.

BOYS U11: 1. Clariq Frett (FLTC Jr), 47.69. 2. Othniel Gillings (FLTC Jr), 47.70. 3. Abijah Auguiste (FLTC Jr), 58.06.

GIRLS U13:1. A’Sia McMaster (UA), 46.04. 2. Karliyah Morton (RSTC), 46:10. 3. Jah’Kyla Morton (UA), 48.24. 4. Shannia Johnson (UA), 52:36. 5. Adrianne Thomas (STTC), 53:01. 6. Shyra Stout (STTC), 55.67

BOYS U13: 1. Jaheem Lennard-Joseph (FLTC Jr), 47:40.

400m
GIRLS U15: 1. Jahtivya Williams (STTC), 1:00.71. 2. A’Keela McMaster (UAT), 1:02.70. 3. Jordanne Thomas (STTC), 1:04.27. 4. Crystal Maximea (FLTC), 1:04.33. 5. Kailia Martin (STTC), 1:04.57. 6. Dejoie Sebastian (STTC), 1:07:34. 7. Vinesha John (STTC), 1:07.77. 8. Kareena Shortte (STTC), 1:10.04. 9.Monisha Martin (STTC), 1:17:43.

BOYS U15: 1. Jabari Pemberton (FLTC), 59:14. 2. Jonathan Lynch (FLTC), 1:06.19. 3. T’Khoy Stevens (RSTC), 1:07.64. 4. Makelis Fergus (RSTC), 1:09.45. 5. Shakoi Maduro (RSTC), 1:17.89.

GIRLS U17: 1. Kaelyaah Liburd (RS), 58.47. 2. Ariyah Smith (ST), 59.21. 3. Kenyatta Grate (ST), 103.29. 4. Glenny Knight (ST), 1:14.72
U20: Mariah Christian (RS), 1:04.99.

BOYS U17: 1. Jaleel Croal (STTC), 51.37. 2. Jamoi Roberts (STTC), 59.31. 3. Shajoni Huggins (FLTC),. 1:02.04.
BOYS U20: 1. Malik John (ST), 50: 84. 2. J’Mari Duhaney (ST), 53: 81. 3. Jonathan Hing (ST), 56:98.

The Dag Samuels Developmental Series Meet # 2 is slated for Saturday January 19th, 2018 at the A.O. Shirley Grounds beginning at 10 am with the following events:

800m, 600m (u11 & u13 only), 400m hurdles, Javelin, Ball throw (u9 & u15), 150m (u9 and u11), 200m (u13 – open)

Filed Under: Athletics Tagged With: , , , , ,

BVI Athletics Association receives $100k grant from IAAF for recovery efforts following 2017 hurricane damage

August 29, 2018 by

By BVI Athletics Association

Steve Augustine, President BVIAA with Lord Sebastian Coe, IAAF President January 15 2018. Photo: BVIAA

Despite the impacts of Hurricane Irma and Maria, the British Virgin Islands Athletics Association continues to forge forward, aiming towards a more successful future in the sport of track and field for the athletes and the territory. One of its latest achievements after submitting an application for funding for the rebuilding of facilities at the A.O. Shirley Grounds was the receipt of US$100,000 grant from the International Association of Athletic Federations’ (IAAF) solidarity funding programme.

Discussions were held on January 15th, 2018 at a North America, Central America and Caribbean Athletic Association (NACAC) meeting, held in San Juan, Puerto Rico to determine the degree of damage to the region and the extent of help needed to aid with the recovery efforts.  At the meeting attended by IAAF President Sebastian Coe, NACAC President Victor Lopez, and BVIAA President Steve Augustine and some of the affected Caribbean federations,  the IAAF and NACAC promised to assist affected federations as much as possible.

“I hope these funds will go some way to rebuilding the sport in the countries most affected by the hurricanes,” said Lord Coe. “We know this is not enough but hope it will at least get the member federations affected back up and running. We will continue to seek further funds and work with the region to ensure athletes’ training is as uninterrupted as possible.”

Victor Lopez said: “As President of the Area one of my key concerns was ensuring our athletes could continue training. I received calls and was in contact with members from across the athletics family and was touched by the support received from the IAAF and from colleagues from all corners of the world who have offered to help, house and host affected athletes training for this year’s events.”

BVIAA President Steve Augustine stated that “ the much needed  funds will go a long way in helping to get our facilities back in order.  With the provision of this funding alongside the continued voluntary works of our track family I am certain that our facility will regain and surpass the functionality it once had.”

“The BVIAA is very appreciative of the tremendous outreach and support of the IAAF and NACAC towards the recovery efforts. The BVIAA is also appreciative of the efforts of the BVI Olympic Committee (BVIOC) in the rebuilding processes. On the heel of the anniversary of Hurricane Irma and that of the significant loss of our Chief Coach Dag Samuel, we are pleased to be able to report on the grant we have received and the hope of seeing the A.O Shirley Grounds and its surroundings restored.”

The BVIAA also invites those that are interested in aiding the rebuilding efforts to reach out to BVIAA Executive members as follows:-
• Steve Augustine +284 496-7529
• Stephanie Russ-Penn +284 496-7155
• Willis Todman +284 496-6666
• Cleave Farrington +284 346-8375
or email ivb@mf.iaaf.org and bviathletics@gmail.com to make a pledge for funding or support in kind.

Filed Under: Athletics Tagged With: , , ,

VI national team competing in 2018 NACAC Athletics Senior Championships, Toronto, Canada

August 10, 2018 by

The ladies of the BVI National team competing at the NACAC Senior Championships 2018 in Toronto, Canada include (r-l) Tahesia Harrigan-Scott (100m), Chantel Malone (Long jump) , Tynelle Gumbs (Hammer, disus), Trevia Gumbs (Discus, Shot put), Deya Erickson (100m Hurdles), Kala Penn (Long jump, Triple jump), Tarika Moses (400m), (not in picture) Ashley Kelly (400m),). Photo: Dean ‘The Sprotsman’ Greenaway.

The BVI Athletics Association’s national team is at the North America, Central America, and Caribbean (NACAC) Athletics Senior Championships, August 10-12 in Toronto Canada.

With the recent success of the territory’s track and field athletes at the Central Caribbean and Caribbean (CAC) Games, in Baranquilla, Columbia similar success is anticipated at the Championships which will include added competition from the United States of America and Canada.

The BVI National team consists of Tahesia Harrigan-Scott (100m), Chantel Malone (Long jump) , Ashley Kelly (400m), Tynelle Gumbs (Hammer, disus), Trevia Gumbs (Discus, Shot put), Deya Erickson (100m Hurdles), Kala Penn (Long jump, Triple jump), Tarika Moses (400m), Eldred Henry (Shot put), Kyron McMaster (400m Hurdles), Shaquoy Stephens (100m) accompanied by team officials Willis Todman, Cliff William and Shaun Williams.

Follow reports on the event on CBN 90.9FM at 10:00am, 2:00pm and 9:30pm.

 

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

VI athletes ready for Flow Carifta Games Bahamas 2018

March 29, 2018 by

By BVI Athletics Association

BVI’s athletes for the 2018 Flow Carifta Games stand behind officials (l-r) Ralston Henry – Athlete Representative, Nadia James-Harris – Flow Marketing and Communication Manager, Steve Augustine – BVI Athletics Association President, Brenda Lettsome-Tye – Director of Youth Affairs and Sports (Ag.), Ephraim Penn – BVI Olympic Committee President. Photo: Cleave Farrington/BVIAA

The British Virgin Islands Athletics Association introduced the athletes who will be competing at the 47th Flow Carifta Games to be held in Bahamas from March 30 – April 2, 2018. The announcement was made at a press conference held on Monday, March 26th 2018 at the BVI Arbitration Centre, Ritter House, Tortola.

The following athletes have been selected based on their performance:
Track and Field athletes includes under 17 Female: Xiomara Malone (100m Hurdles, High Jump and Long Jump), Zara Brown (100m and 200m) and Akrisa Eristee (200m and 400m). Under 17 Male: Malik John (200m and 400m) and Jaleel Croal (100m and 200m). Under 20 Female: Beyonce Defreitas (100m and 200m), Arianna Hayne (Long Jump) and Akira Phillip (Javelin). Under 20 Male: Rikkoi Brathwaite (100 and 200m), Joshua Hill (200m and 400m), Djimon Gumbs (Shot put and Discus) and Diamante Gumbs (Shot put and Discus).

Officials attending the Games include Stephanie Russ-Penn, Team Manager; Coaches Karene King, Cliff Williams and Erwin Telemaque; Chester “Levi” James, Team Physio and Cleave Farrington, Press.

Commenting to the athletes on their selection, Mrs. Brenda Lettsome-Tye – Director of Youth Affairs and Sports (Ag.), who spoke on behalf of the Minister of Education, Culture and Sports Hon. Myron V. Walwyn congratulated all the athletes that have qualified for the games. She further stated that the Minister extended his congratulations to the coaches and parents. She said “Honourable Walwyn is very excited and pleased that the Virgin Islands was able to field a team at the Carifta Games, especially after all that we have been through with the passage of Hurricanes Irma and Maria and we will continue to have his support. We are a resilient people and we expect nothing but the very best from you. We expect you to continue to be BVI strong and we expect you to bring back medals again.”

BVI Olympic Committee President, Ephraim Penn congratulated athletes on being selected noting further that Hurricanes Irma and Maria caused severe damage to sporting facilities in the VI resulting in the set back of the progress of sports in the territory, Mr. Penn said, “We recognize the effort, determination and perseverance required by the athletes to stay on track despite the challenges that they faced from the impact of the storms on their homes, their families and not least, the tragic loss of Athletics head coach, Dag Samuels”.

Mr. Penn thanked the BVI Government for working with the BVIOC to get sports to this stage, he also thanked the BVIAA President, Steve Augustine, Flow, Puma and especially the parents of the athletes.

Mr. Penn said “the BVI Olympic Committee stands committed to help in the development of sport and in particular, track and field. We have sponsored the team this year for US$20,000, in addition, a shipment of track and field equipment has arrived in the territory from Panam Sports and to top it off, a contract between Mondo and Panam Sports is in the final stage for the replacement of the track surface at the A.O. Shirley Grounds. Our job is to make sure your job is easy. You put in the work. It’s our responsiblity to make sure things are in place to help you succeed.”

In closing Mr. Penn reminded Athletes that they are subject to anti-doping testing at the games.

Mrs. Nadia James-Harris, Flow Marketing and Communication Manager in her remarks congratulated all the athletes. Flow is the title sponsor of the annual Carifta Games for the third consecutive year. Ms. James-Harris stated that “Flow invests in Caribbean dreams as the best and brightest display of talents by Caribbean Athletes.”

She encourages all to follow the games in Flow Sports and identify BVI as your favourite team with #FlowCarifta. To the athletes, Mrs James-Harris said “We are confident that you are going to go faster, you are going to go further, and you are going to go higher and make us all proud and bring home some medals as you always do.”

Mrs. James-Harris presented 4 handsets to the BVI Athletics Association to assist the team during the Games with activated 7 Day Prepaid Combo Plans.

Additional contributions from Flow include:
• Featuring the BVI Delegation athletes through a series of 30 second videos of the athletes in training, or talking about their experiences preparing for the games
• Engaging the BVIAA and Carifta athletes in a radio interview on ZBVI
• Hosting a Carifta Games Watch Party – Sunday April 1st, 2018 at Mulligan’s 4 p.m. (all invited)

BVIAA President, Mr. Steve Augustine in his remarks made mention that Puma is now the BVI’s Track and Field official sponsor to outfit the national team competing at all international and regional events.

Puma has sponsored BVI world-ranked athletes, Kyron McMaster (400m Hurdler), and Chantel Malone (Long Jump) who have recently signed individual deals with the sportswear company. “This is certainly not the first time that Puma has sponsored the BVI Track Athletes,” said Mr. Augustine. As documented by Mr. Rey O’Neal, Mr. Augustine read “Puma outfitted the British Virgin Islands’ first Olympic team to Los Angeles in 1984 as well as competitors at the 1987 and 1991 World Championships in Athletics. Members of the first Olympic group still resident in the Territory include track and field athletes, Dean Greenaway, Guy Hill, and Lindel Hodge, sailors, Dr. Robin Tattersall, Keith Thomas, and Elvet Meyers, and team officials, Rey O’Neal, and Hon. Mark Vanterpool.”

Mr. Augustine commended the late Xavier ‘Dag’ Samuels who was instrumental with the PUMA deal for BVI Athletics. He said “Part of the reason we are here in Puma gear today had a great deal to do with the drive Coach Samuels brought to the table.”

In his closing remarks. Mr. Augustine reflected on past Carifta games’ medalists and made mention of the numerous athletes that have benefited in athletics scholarship for tertiary level education through the BVI Athletics and reinforced the importance of BVI Government investment into track and tield athletes.

The official opening ceremony of the Flow Carifta Games is set for Friday, March 30th at the Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium, Nassau, Bahamas starting at 6 p.m. Competition begins on Saturday, March 31st until Monday, April 2nd, 2018.

Filed Under: Athletics Tagged With: , , , ,
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