Team BVI wraps up Paris 2024 Olympic Games with historic performances

August 14, 2024 by

Team BVI concluded its participation at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games with a final appearance at the Closing Ceremony at the Stade de France on August 11 where Rikkoi Brathwaite, 100m semifinalist, was the flagbearer.

Four athletes represented the Virgin Islands (UK) in two sports – track and field and sailing. Each competed in their respective events to deliver historic performances and results.

Thad Lettsome, the first of the athletes to compete in the Games, debuted as an Olympian in the Men’s Dinghy ILCA7 – the first VI sailor to compete at an Olympic Games since 1996. Lettsome, a flagbearer at the Opening Ceremony posted a 2nd place finish in race four, the best race result of any VI Olympic sailor.

Rikkoi Brathwaite became the first VI male athlete to advance to an Olympic 100m semifinals in his Olympic debut.

At just 18 years old, Adaejah Hodge, a flagbearer at the Olympic Games and youngest competitor in the 200m event, became the first VI athlete to advance to a 200m semifinals at her first Olympic appearance.

World silver medalist and two times Commonwealth Games champion, Kyron McMaster became the first two-times Olympic finalist when he competed in the 400m hurdles finals with a 5th place finish with a Season’s Best of 47.79 on August 9 to close out the VI’s Paris 2024 competitions.

The Chef de Mission for Paris 2024, Tahesia Harrigan-Scott was responsible for the administration and smooth participation of the team of athletes and delegation at the Games. Her role of athlete and delegation support and ensuring all requirements and timelines were met, began in 2022 and continued throughout the close of the Games.

“Everyone was comfortable, everyone was supported, they were in a great environment and their teams were supportive,” said Harrigan-Scott. “The athletes were very focused and dedicated. They were here for business, and their attitude – the way that they ate, the way they went to sleep early – they took the competition seriously. I congratulate them for being so professional in handling themselves at these Games.”

The BVI Olympic Committee had the overall responsibility for the team that represented the VI at the Games once the qualified athletes were confirmed by the BVI Athletics Association and the Royal BVI Yacht Club.

“The athletes are the reason why we are here,” said BVIOC President Ephraim Penn. “It’s about their journey and their mission to make the Virgin Islands proud. They have showed grit on the field; They have held their heads high, and we could not have asked for better ambassadors in Paris. Up to the very end, we were in the medal picture, and we had the entire British Virgin Islands watching and only sports can do something like that. The athletes make the work of the BVIOC even more enjoyable and rewarding, when you can see that, through our efforts, the athletes can exceed or achieve their highest potential. For a small country, being in the final and being one of the favourites to win a medal is all we can ask for. We are extremely proud of all of them.”

The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports also leant its support to the athletes participating at the Games. The

“Heartfelt congratulations to the Olympic athletes from the Team BVI 2024 in Paris,” said Honourable Sharie de Castro the Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports who attended the Games in support of all four athletes. “The entire territory is extremely proud of the performance of all the athletes. When we consider the type of determination, grit and perseverance that it took for our athletes to compete on the world stage, we have no choice but to be completely behind them and supportive of their journey. We are truly proud of them. Thank you to all the persons that came out to the watch party – just seeing and hearing the support, all the flags – I know it went a long way. It showed that when we come together in unity in support of sports it truly speaks volumes to how small we are but – as Kyron says – how heavy we are.”

The VI delegation included BVIOC President Ephraim Penn, Secretary General Lloyd Black, Sailing Coach Chris Watters, Team Leader Tamsin Rand, National Athletics Coach Willis Todman, track coaches Gerald Phiri and Jean-Carlos and Physiotherapist Colin Turner. Sofia Fay attends as Press Attache.

Approximately 10,500 participants from over 200 Olympic Delegations competed in 32 Olympic sports at Paris 2024.

Paris 2024 marked the 40th anniversary of the BVI’s participation in the Olympic Games. Each athlete qualifying for the Games in their own right is a testament, not only to the talent, focus, commitment and efforts of the athletes, their coaches and families, but also to the support from the BVIOC and their programme sponsors who facilitate athlete development to compete at the highest level.

“The journey to Paris has not always been smooth as for most small NOCs. We’ve had ups and downs and one of those has been funding but we overcame that with support from the Private Sector and Govenrment also pitched in,” said President Penn in acknowledgement of the support for the Paris 2024 athletes. “We thank the sponsors who came in on the Tahesia Harrigan-Scott Elite Athlete Scholarship programme and we encourage other sponsors to join in and make that programme a beacon of hope for the young athletes as they pursue their journey.”

McMaster, Lettsome, Brathwaite and Hodge 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, Olympians Chantel Malone (long jump) and Eldred Henry (shot put).

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: Adaejah Hodge, Athletics, BVI Olympic Committee, Kyron McMaster, Olympic Solidarity, Panam Sports, Paris 2024, Rikkoi Brathwaite, Sailing, Tahesia Harrigan-Scott, Tahesia Harrigan-Scott Elite Athlete Scholarship, Thad Lettsome Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

McMaster secures spot in 400m hurdles finals at Paris 2024 Olympic Games

August 7, 2024 by
Kyron McMaster secures place in Paris 2024 Olympic 400m hurdles with a 1st place finish in semifinal 2 in 48.15 at the Stade de France on August 7, 2024. Photo: Todd Vansickle

Kyron McMaster has done it again in a packed stadium of 80,000 in Paris and secured his place in the 400m hurdles final after automatically qualifying with a 1st place finish in semifinal 2 in 48.15 at the Stade de France on August 7.

McMaster will run in Lane 6 at 9:45pm / 3:45pm BVI time on August 9 when the world’s current top 8 400m hurdlers will line up to compete for podium position.

Speaking shortly after his race, McMaster explained that his strategy to get through the round and into the final was like his Round 1 race for the semis. “It was to get in position for the big Q; hold the position; control the position to make it through as easy as possible,” he said.

While McMaster led the field in his set, he said “it wasn’t as easy as I thought it would’ve been, but we got the job done. All these boys came here for one thing and one thing only: that’s to get to the Olympic finals and to get an Olympic medal. I expected some kickback in my plan – the competitiveness; the nerves; me executing the race how it needed to be executed – but I executed it, and we got through with the big Q.”

Looking forward to the finals McMaster said, “I think I just have to commit more to certain phases of the race and I’ll be good.”

The BVI’s 2023 World Athletics silver medalist and two times Commonwealth gold medalist who has a season’s best of 47.81 will contest the event with Rai Benjamin (USA – SB 46.46), Alison dos Santos (Brazil – SB 46.63), Karsten Warholm (Norway – SB 46.70), Roshawn Clarke (Jamaica – SB 47.63), Clement Ducos (France – SB 47.69), Rasmus Magi (Estonia – SB 47.95) and Abderrahman Samba (Qatar – SB 47.97). This is the second Olympic final of McMaster’s career following his 4th place finish at Tokyo 2020 in a PB of 47.08.

Approximately 10,500 participants from over 200 Olympic Delegations are competing in 32 Olympic sports at Paris 2024. The Games can be followed live on SportsMax Channels.

Filed Under: Athletics, BVI Olympic Committee, Kyron McMaster, Paris 2024 Tagged With: , , , ,

McMaster to compete in 400m hurdles semifinals at Paris 2024. Hodge, Lettsome wrap up historic first Olympic appearances in 200m and Dinghy ILCA7

August 6, 2024 by
Kyron McMaster advances to the Paris 2024 400m hurdles semifinals after Round 1 at the Stade de France, Paris on August 5. Photo: Todd Vansickle
Adaejah Hodge ran her best Olympic time of 22.70 to finish 17th in the 200m at the semifinals at the Stade de France, Paris. Photo: Todd Vansickle
Thad Lettsome placed 38/43 in the Men’s Dinghy ILCA7 at the Paris 2024 Olympics in Marseille. Photo Robert Deaves UK

World Silver medalist and Tokyo 2020 4th place finalist, Olympian Kyron McMaster cruised to an automatic semifinals’ qualifier in the 400m hurdles with a time of 49.24 in Round 1 Heat 1 at the Stade de France, Paris on August 5. That same day, young Olympians Adaejah Hodge (200m) and Thad Lettsome (ILCA7) closed out their first historic Olympic appearances at the Paris 2024 Games.

McMaster, who has been handling a persistent anterior labrum injury that has plagued him throughout the season, has been working successfully with his team on a pain management programme to allow him to work through the rounds as he competes in the 2nd Olympic appearance of his career.

“The main objective was to secure the big Q, so once I positioned myself for the first 250 meters into the race, I just kept it and eased it home,” said McMaster of his Round 1 race. “I tried not to aggravate anything, kept my composure and secured the finish.”

McMaster will race in the 400m hurdles Semifinal 2 in Lane 4 at the Stade de France on August 7 starting at 7:35pm / 1:35pm AST.

Hodge competed in the 200m Repechage at the Stade de France in Paris the morning of August 5 progressing to the semifinals that evening. Photo: Todd Vansickle

Hodge competed in the 200m Repechage at the Stade de France in Paris the morning of August 5 progressing to the semifinals that evening. An historic first for the BVI, Hodge ran in semifinal 1 where she achieved her best time in the Olympics of 22.70. The 18-year-old sprinter – the youngest competitor in her field – bowed out of the Games with a 17th place finish.

“Before the race I was talking myself to get myself amped up and it seemed to work, because I actually lowered my time,” said Hodge. “Throughout the race, I just trusted my training and trusted what I’ve been doing leading up to this point. I think I executed my race well. I’m only 18 so I’m looking forward to the next event, which is the U20s in Peru, and dominate there.”

Hodge – while proud to be the first 200m semifinalist for her nation – aspires to climb higher and be the VI’s first female Olympic medalist. “I know that I can’t overshadow my Blessings and my small victories like today but know that I am not content with this level. I always want to break the ceiling. For a female to bring home the first medal – that’s the goal, ” she said.

On her take away from the Olympic experience, Hodge noted that the big stage was daunting. “It’s very hard to go out into the crowd – everyone screaming – so getting comfortable in the situation with all those fans and [to] allow myself to be Adaejah Hodge is something I will need to do,” she said.

Hodge went on to share her insight to aspiring athletes explaining that “it takes a lot of sacrifice; it takes a lot of discipline, and it takes that “beast” mentality” to reap the rewards.

Lettsome, sailing in the Men’s Dinghy ILCA7 in Marseille concluded his event with races 7 and 8 on August 4 after races 9 and 10 on August 5 were cancelled due to no breeze.

With uncertain sailing conditions and course changes for every race, Lettsome had faced daily challenges on the water but executed solid races for an overall 38/43 position in the fleet. He had a standout 2nd place finish in race 4 on August 2.

“It was absolutely amazing to be able to represent the BVI here at the Olympics and to see what I could do against the best guys in the world at the pinnacle of the sport,” said Lettsome. “I have lots of good takeaways and lots of good highlights as well. Finishing in 2nd place in that race was a great achievement and something I will never forget and, I hope, can serve as an inspiration looking forward.”

Lettsome, who is the territory’s first sailing Olympian since 1996, lamented there had not been others between times. He shared his encouragement and hopes for future sailors to represent the VI at major Games.

“Hopefully I will not be the last sailing Olympian for such a long time again. I say to people back home to just go out and try the thing. You have to start [in order] to get here, so take the chance and go see what sailing is like. Go on Saturday mornings to the Yacht Club and give it a go; sign up for Summer Camp and just see. You never know – you really may enjoy doing it and you never know where it will lead.”

Lettsome was accompanied by Coach Chris Watters and Team Leader, Tamsin Rand who described the atmosphere in Marseille as being “incredible”. Thousands of spectators were at the venue in the South of France and creating a buzz around the city.

“Overall, this event was an amazing experience for Thad,” said Watters. “He is a better sailor because he was here. The 2nd place in race 4 will always be the highlight of this event and the efforts that he has put in over the last 3 or 4 months have really shown through in that spot. Everyone is super proud. He has done a great job, and we look forward to more.”

Rand, who is the administrator at the Royal BVI Yacht Club, has seen Lettsome progress from a young age.

“I am super proud of Thad’s achievements this week,” said Rand. “He has a very bright future in sailing and is a true inspiration for our youth sailors at home. The next generation of BVI Olympic sailors have been glued to Thad’s races and have witnessed history in action. I can’t not mention his 2nd place finish in Race four which is the BEST race result of any BVI Olympic sailor!”

Hodge and Lettsome were the VI’s Flagbearers at the historic Opening Ceremony along the River Seine on July 26.

“Once again we have seen incredible accomplishments by two young athletes who have represented us on the world stage with composure and discipline beyond their years,” said BVI Olympic Committee President Ephraim Penn. “We know that this is just the beginning for Adaejah and Thad and we thank and congratulate them for their dedication, commitment and sacrifices made to compete at this highest level of sport at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. We are proud of you!”

The Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, Honourable Sharie de Castro in attendance at the Games, added her commendations of the Olympians who have concluded their appearances Paris 2024.

“I am thrilled to congratulate Thad Lettsome for flying the BVI flag in sailing with excellence,” said Honourable de Castro. “His 2nd place finish in Race 4 is a remarkable achievement, and he is the first from the BVI to achieve such an incredible feat. Thad’s success is truly inspirational and demonstrates what’s possible for the future of sailing in the BVI.

“Congratulations also to Rikkoi Brathwaite and Adaejah Hodge, who have made history by reaching the semi-finals in the 100 meters and 200 meters, respectively, as first-time Olympians. This is a monumental achievement, reflecting the grit and determination it took to reach this level of competition. Their performances have set a new standard and have shown that our athletes are among the best in the world.”

The Minister shared her comments on McMaster’s progression to the semifinals of the 400m hurdles.

“Kyron McMaster, a semi-finalist also continues to chart a path for our athletes, serving as motivation for those coming behind. I look forward to his advancement in the games and further achievements,” said Honourable de Castro. “Once again, congratulations to all our athletes for representing the BVI with pride and excellence.”

Approximately 10,500 participants from over 200 Olympic Delegations are competing in 32 Olympic sports at Paris 2024. The Games can be followed live on SportsMax Channels.

Filed Under: Adaejah Hodge, Athletics, BVI Olympic Committee, Kyron McMaster, Paris 2024, Sailing, Thad Lettsome Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Brathwaite wraps up first Olympic appearance with historic 100m semis. Hodge to compete in 200m semi qualifiers, Lettsome holds position in fickle sailing conditions

August 5, 2024 by
Rikkoi Brathwaite runs a non-advancing time of 10:15 in the 100m semifinals of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games on August 4 at the Stade de France. Photo: Todd Vansickle

Rikkoi Brathwaite wrapped up his first Olympic appearance with a 10:15 non-advancing 8th place finish running in Heat 1 Lane 2 of the 100m semifinals on August 4 at the Stade de France, Paris.

“Coming out of the warmup, everything was firing right. I had everything going. I was ready, waited a while in the call room before heading into the race. When the gun fired, I think I got out first. As the race progressed, I had a lot of cramps everywhere at that point but still pursued the race and finished with a 10.15. It isn’t how I wanted to end the Season, but it is what it is, and I’ll come back stronger,” said Brathwaite.

Brathwaite lined up in his heat against powerful contestants including the 2 sprinters that would make it to the 100m finals, including Noah Lyles (USA) and Oblique Seville (Jamaica) but remained unphased.

“I don’t focus on anyone at the point of lining up. I don’t worry about nobody else; I just worry about how my execution of the race will unfold,” said Brathwaite. “You visualize your execution weeks, before, days before, hours before – so when you realise that that you’re not doing what you visualized, you have a mental queue to revert to plan.”

On his experience competing in a packed stadium holding 80,000 spectators, Brathwaite said, “When I looked up, I noticed that the stadium goes to the heavens – it’s huge – and I thought “This is it. This is what I live for. This is what I want.” It’s hard to explain the immensity, the crowd and intensity of it all.”

“This was a great event to watch and the enormity of Rikkoi’s achievement was made all the more obvious as we observed him compete fearlessly against the worlds’ current leading 100m sprinters,” said BVI Olympic Committee President Ephraim Penn. “This is Rikkoi’s first Olympics and we are looking forward to seeing him continue his journey to success at Los Angeles 2028.”

Attending the Paris 2024 Games, Honourable Sharie de Castor, Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports watched the race from the tribunes. “Congratulations to Rikkoi Brathwaite on his outstanding performance in the semi-finals of the men’s 100m!” said Hon. De Castro. “By being the first male from the BVI to advance to this level, Rikkoi has made history and represented our territory with immense pride. His drive and hunger for more are evident, and I am confident he will continue to develop his craft and represent the BVI with distinction. Keep pushing, Rikkoi! The finish line is just the beginning!”

Brathwaite became the first BVI male to advance to the 100m semifinals at an Olympic Games when he ran a qualifying time of 10.13 that placed him 3rd in Round 1 Heat 6 on August 3.

The Men’s 100m was won by Lyles in a hotly contested finals later that night of August 4 in a time of 9.79 (PB), beating Kishane Thompson (Jamaica) by five-thousandths of a second. Fred Kerley (USA) came 3rd in 9.81 (SB).

Adaejah Hodge ran a time of 23:00 to finish 5th in Heat 6 of the 200m Round 1 at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in the Stade de France on August 4. Photo: Todd Vansickle.

Adaejah Hodge ran a time of 23:00 in Heat 6 of the 200m Round 1 for a 5th place finish as she made her Olympic debut at the Paris 2024 Games at just 18 years of age – the youngest competitor in the event. With the top 3 in each of the 6 heats qualifying automatically for the semifinals, Hodge will compete in the Repechage Heat 1 in Lane 7 at 12:50pm / 6:50am BVI time on Monday, August 5.

“It was a blessing to be able to go on track and race today. I was super excited to go out in front of the crowd and zoned them out when I got to the line,” said Hodge. “I got a little tense, but that could’ve been the first time, Olympic stage-nerves but it’s all good. I’m looking forward to attacking the next race.”

First in each Repechage heat automatically qualify (Q) for the semifinal and the next 2 fastest (q) advance to semifinal.

Schedule and results can be found here.

Thad Lettsome completed races 7 & 8 for an overall 38/43 position in the Men’s Dinghy IlCA7 of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at the close of day on August 4 in Marseille, France. Photo: Robert Deaves UK.

Thad Lettsome competing on Day 4 of the Men’s Dinghy ILCA7 spent 5 hours on the water for races 7 & 8 on August 4 in Marseille, France due to a number of “Black Flag” restarts.

In winds that were a little bit lighter and fickle compared to races 5 and 6 the previous day on August 3, Lettsome beat a quarter of the fleet to round the 2nd mark in 18th place ending race 7 in a decent 26/43 place.

“Thad got off to a great start in Race 8 and, in another really tight race, was just on the back of the trailing pack” said Coach Chris Watters. “He was right in it with really close racing – closer than we’ve seen along with lots of improvement.”

Lettsome placed 37/43 in race 8 for an overall position of 38/43.

Lettsome will compete in races 9 and 10 starting at 2:40pm / 8:40am on August 5. The medal race takes place on August 6. The event schedule and results can be found on Paris 2024.sailing.org searching for Men’s Dinghy.

Hodge and Lettsome were the VI’s Flagbearers at the historic Opening Ceremony along the River Seine on July 26.

World Silver medalist and Tokyo 2020 4th place finalist, Olympian Kyron McMaster will compete in the 400m hurdles Round 1 on August 5 starting at 10:05am/4:05am AST.

Approximately 10,500 participants from over 200 Olympic Delegations will compete in 32 Olympic sports. The Games can be followed live on SportsMax Channels.

Filed Under: Adaejah Hodge, Athletics, BVI Olympic Committee, Kyron McMaster, Paris 2024, Rikkoi Brathwaite, Sailing, Thad Lettsome Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

Brathwaite becomes 1st VI male to advance to the 100m semifinals at an Olympic Games. Lettsome sails in tough conditions in Races 5 & 6

August 3, 2024 by
PARIS, FRANCE – AUGUST 03: Rikkoi Brathwaite of Team Virgin Islands, Ackeem Blake of Team Jamaica and Wanya McCoy of Team Bahamas compete during the Men’s 100m Round 1 on day eight of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Stade de France on August 03, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Hannah Peters/Getty Images)

Competing in the first Olympic event of his career, Rikkoi Brathwaite shone with a 100m semi final qualifying time of 10.13 in Round 1 Heat 6 of 8 at the Stade de France in Paris on Saturday, August 3.

“When I got up this morning, I said it was do or die day,” said Brathwaite. “I was very calm today, trusting in God, knowing that He would deliver me, because that’s what I prayed for. I got to warming up, everything felt great, everything felt fine, Coach gave me a dabs and kiss on the head and I went in there with all the confidence Jesus bestowed upon me today, and because of that I got to the semifinals – I am a semi finalist!”

Brathwaite will compete in the Men’s 100m Semi-Final 1 in Lane 2 at 8:05pm/ 2:05pm BVI time on Sunday, August 4 at the Stade de France.

For schedule and results  https://olympics.com/en/paris-2024/schedule/athletics/men-s-100m

Thad Lettsome competed in the Men’s Dinghy IlCA& at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games Photo (C) Robert Deaves UK

Sailing Update

Thad Lettsome, sailing in the Men’s Dinghy ILCA7 closed out the day with Race 6 with a 38/43 place for an overall 38/43 position on August 3 in Marseille, France.

“Competing in overall hard, tricky and rough conditions of 12 – 18 knots with higher gusts, large waves and side swell coming from a different direction to the wind, Thad continues to sail well,” said Coach Chris Watters.

Races 7 and 8 take place on Sunday, August 4 starting at 12:05pm / 6:05am BVI time (start times subject to change)

Schedule and results https://paris2024.sailing.org/racing/results-centre/ (search Men’s Dinghy)

Track and field events for the VI athletes take place at the Stade de France in Paris. Adaejah Hodge will take to the blocks in the 200m rounds on August 4 starting at 10:55am / 4:55am AST. Kyron McMaster competes in the 400m hurdles heats on August 5 starting at 10:05am / 4:05am AST.

Approximately 10,500 participants from over 200 Olympic Delegations will compete in 32 Olympic sports. The Games can be followed live on SportsMax Channels.  

Filed Under: Adaejah Hodge, Athletics, BVI Olympic Committee, Kyron McMaster, Paris 2024, Rikkoi Brathwaite, Sailing, Thad Lettsome Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

Thad Lettsome climbs in ranking at the Paris Games on Day 2 in the Men’s Dinghy ILCA7 – finishes Race 4 in 2nd place

August 2, 2024 by
Thad Lettsome finishes in 2nd place in Race 4 of the Men’s Dinghy ILCA7 on August 2 at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in Marseille, France. Photo copyright World Sailing / Sander van de Borch.

Thad Lettsome posted a 2nd place finish in Race 4 of 10 as he competed in the second day of racing in the Men’s Dinghy ILCA7 on August 2, in Marseille, France. The remarkable achievement improves Lettsome’s overall standing to a 34/43 position as he prepares to compete in 6 more races over the next 3 days.

Heading out to the first racecourse of the day for the 3rd race in the Men’s Dinghy series, Lettsome had set the goal of getting better starts. While he started among the leaders, he was not able to hold the position for the remainder of the race. Lettsome dropped to the middle and the back of the pack, completing the race 36/43.

Lettsome took a different approach to Race 4 and started from a more open area with a view to sailing around the fleet. The higher risk tactic paid off.

“I had a good start and was able to sail in clear breeze and execute my own plan,” said Lettsome. “I made sure I kept my eye on the other sailors and stayed between them and the mark. I ended up rounding the first mark 1st and finishing the race 2nd.”

Coach Chris Watters reflected on the day’s events noting that following the 3rd race, the two had discussions on making changes for the 4th race and gave insights on the legs between the marks.

“He started with good company around him, including a medalist from past Games, and from that point forward, he just sailed an incredible race and led the first beat,” said Watters. “He split from the sailor on the next leg, and by the top mark he was 3rd in the first group. He managed to pass one boat on the last downwind and close the gap with the first to end the day in 2nd. To hold on to the lead and not let it slip the whole time was awesome to watch. This is the potential that we’ve seen from Thad these past few months and today he sailed super well.”

Coach and sailor will review the races and recap on the execution of the objectives as they discuss how to apply lessons learned for the upcoming Races 5 and 6 on August 3.

Making a special visit from Paris to the sailing venue in Marseille, the Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, Honourable Sharie de Castro accompanied BVI Olympic Committee President Ephraim Penn, Secretary General Lloyd Black and Chef de Mission Tahesia Harrigan-Scott to watch the races. Lettsome’s family is also in Marseille for the duration of his events.

Lettsome joined the visitors after his races where he was congratulated on his results and encouraged to continue excelling in his sport.

“I extend heartfelt congratulations to Thad for his outstanding performance today,” said Hon. Minister de Castro. “Rounding the first mark in 1st place and finishing 2nd out of 43 in Race 4 of the ILCA7 Men’s Dinghy is a remarkable achievement! His dedication, skill, and tenacity have brought immense pride to the British Virgin Islands. His hard work and high standard of competition inspire us all. The entire territory is behind him every step of the way and I am confident that he will keep making waves in the sailing world.”

President Penn shared his view on the BVI’s first sailing Olympian since Robby Hirst competed at the 1996 Games in Atlanta.

“Today’s outcome is exactly the goal of the BVIOC’s mission in working with National Federations to help athletes advance compete at the highest level,” said President Penn. “Thad’s story started as a young boy sailing in the youth sailing programme with the Royal BVI Yacht Club. His passion for the sport, support from his parents, and determination to progress were the additional elements needed to supplement the efforts of all his coaches along the way. Making it to his first Olympic Games and giving such an amazing delivery toady against a field of more experienced sailors couldn’t make us prouder of Thad as he continues to represent Team BVI at the world’s most prestigious sporting event.”

Lettsome will also compete in the twice-daily ILCA7 races on August 4 and 5. The medal race takes place on August 6. The event schedule and results can be found on Paris 2024.sailing.org.

Lettsome, was a Flagbearer at the Opening Ceremony.

Track and field events for the VI athletes take place at the Stade de France in Paris and start on August 3 when Brathwaite will compete in the 100m rounds starting at 5:45am AST. Hodge will take to the blocks in the 200m rounds on August 4 starting at 4:55am AST. McMaster competes in the 400m hurdles heats on August 5 starting at 4:05am AST.

Approximately 10,500 participants from over 200 Olympic Delegations will compete in 32 Olympic sports. The Games can be followed live on SportsMax Channels.

Filed Under: BVI Olympic Committee, Paris 2024, Sailing, Thad Lettsome Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Thad Lettsome kicks off BVI Olympic participation at the Paris Games in the Men’s Dinghy ILCA7

August 1, 2024 by
Thad Lettsome (ILCA7) on Day 1 of the Men’s Dinghy races at the Paris 2024 Games, Marseille, France. Photo copyright Worldsailing/Sander van der Boch.

Thad Lettsome became the first BVI athlete to compete at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games as he completed the first day of racing in the Men’s Dinghy ILCA7 on August 1 in Marseille, France.

Lettsome closed out the first day with a total of 78 points for a 40/43 position.

Launching his ILCA7 at 12:30pm, Thad made his way to the start line for race 1 of 2. Finishing overall position 40/43, Lettsome said of the first race, “I felt race 1 was a sub-par start, which just made it hard the whole first part upwind, but there were moments where I was in the mix. I made a wrong decision halfway up the first beat, which put me from in the middle towards the back and, from there, you’re just fighting the whole time.”

Lettsome went on to climb a couple of spots for a 38th place in race 2 after an incredible 11th place in rounding the first mark.

“I did what I wanted to do and stuck to my plan and started on the right side and went out to the right side and was in a really good position to round the top mark,” said Lettsome. “But I got sucked into the mix on the downwind with a foul at the bottom mark, where we got shut out and I wasn’t able to round the mark – even though I had the right of way – and it just launched me to the back of the fleet, so I’m pretty upset about that.”

Lettsome rounded the 2nd mark in position 21 and in position 38 around the final marks. On racing in the top 12 of the fleet upwind to the first mark, Lettsome said, “It shows that I can do it, but I just have to work on some little things and a couple of decisions, because the group ahead of me was just that further ahead and they didn’t end up in the mix that I did. I knew I was doing well so I am encouraged to hear that I was 11th rounding the mark and plan to do it again tomorrow.”

Watching the racing from the venue at Plage de Prado, Team Leader Tamsin Rand explained that sailing in the lead pack – at times in 8th and 9th position – was no mean feat.

“Thad’s still young and he’s racing against much more experienced sailors, so to make it up in the top of the fleet and sustain the position rounding the mark is really quite remarkable,” said Rand. “It’s all about making the right decisions in these races. He’ll be going over today’s race with Coach Chris Watters and reviewing his tactical decisions to make adjustments in his next events.”

Lettsome competes in ILCA7 races 3 and 4 on Friday, August 2 with further twice-daily races on August 3, 4 and 5. The medal race takes place on August 6. The race schedule and results can be found on Paris 2024.sailing.org.

Lettsome, who was a Flagbearer at the Opening Ceremony, is the first BVI sailing Olympian to compete at an Olympic Games since 1996.

Track and field events for the VI athletes take place at the Stade de France in Paris and start on August 3 when Brathwaite will compete in the 100m rounds starting at 5:45am AST. Hodge will take to the blocks in the 200m rounds on August 4 starting at 4:55am AST. McMaster competes in the 400m hurdles heats on August 5 starting at 4:05am AST.

Approximately 10,500 participants from over 200 Olympic Delegations will compete in 32 Olympic sports. The Games can be followed live on SportsMax Channels.  

Filed Under: BVI Olympic Committee, Sailing, Thad Lettsome Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Pre-Games Chats with Rikkoi Brathwaite (100m) and Adaejah Hodge (200m) at Paris 2024

July 29, 2024 by

Get the inside scoop on Rikkoi Brathwaite (100m) and Adaejah Hodge (200m) as they prepare to debut at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games on August 3 and August 4 respectively!

Filed Under: Adaejah Hodge, Athletics, BVI Olympic Committee, Paris 2024, Rikkoi Brathwaite Tagged With: , , , ,

BVI Olympians wave National flag with pride at historic Paris 2024 Opening Ceremony

July 27, 2024 by
26 Julio 2024, Paris-Francia: Ceremonia de Inauguración por los Juegos Olímpicos París 2024. Alejandro Goycoolea

In an historic moment in Olympic history, the British Virgin Islands Olympic Committee team participated in the Paris 2024 Opening Ceremony, which took place outside of a stadium for the first time, on July 26. Flagbearers Thad Lettsome (ILCA7) and Adaejah Hodge (200m) along with Kyron McMaster (400m hurdles), Rikkoi Brathwaite (100m), Chef de Mission Tahesia Harrigan-Scott and National track coach Willis Todman were among the 6,500 athletes that took part in an 85-boat parade along the River Seine before arriving at the Trocadero for the official opening.

The flotilla of boats with the NOC teams passed along iconic landmarks in Paris bringing the event live to the wider public in an unprecedented way. The colourful and energetic ceremony, featuring a galaxy of French and international artistes and performers delivering acts between the Pont d’Austerlitz and the Pont d’Iéna, was conceived by the acclaimed French theatre director Thomas Jolly. Despite the rain that set in for the night, the VI team was elated to be representing the territory in what, for 3 of the athletes, was their first Olympic Opening Ceremony.

“The Opening Ceremony was an incredible experience,” said flagbearer Thad Lettsome (ILCA7). “It was amazing to see how many people were able to view it. We had people on the riverbanks, people in buildings, on bridges and on rooftops, so it was amazing to be able to show off the BVI and represent the BVI in front of so many people with Adaejah and the others.”

Lettsome, who travelled up from Marseille in the south of France on July 26 for the Opening Ceremony, returns to the sailing competition venue in Marseille on July 27 ahead of his competition start date of August 1.

“We were excited to be part of the first experience of the Opening Ceremony on the water, it was way less stressful on the athletes’ bodies so that was a plus for Paris!” said Chef de Mission Harrigan-Scott. “The energy of the crowds was amazing, the athletes were very excited to be part of the event – especially Adaejah and Thad, who not only carried the flag but also waved it with pride!”

The team was dressed in the Opening Ceremony wear featuring the Paradise print exclusively designed and created by Kristin Frazer of Trefle Designs.

“The outfit designed by Kristin was our best one yet!” said Harrigan-Scott. “Everyone was complimenting us on the uniform, so we did go out in style. I just wish the weather would have been a little sunnier to allow us to fully display the vibrant colours we had to show off to the world.”

Attending an Olympic Opening ceremony for the first time, Frazer who has designed the previous 3 Olympic Opening wear for the BVIOC, was elated to witness the spectacle of Team BVI in her design on the world stage firsthand.

“This is the kind of experience you want to be part of!” said Frazer. “This is a beautiful moment, and I am filled with emotional gratitude! Exhilarating, proud, humbled with a slight touch of tears is how I feel. Thank you to the BVIOC and all of my supporters for this opportunity.”

The female outfit was a jumpsuit design with bell sleeves to represent the VI waters and a flat collar, V-neck button-down fitted top. The white trouser element of the suit was fitted with a close ankle opening for a sporty feel.

The male outfit, which featured a fresh, mandarin collar, button-down that references the Caribbean waves and a pop of the VI’s national colours, was paired linen pants. White leather sneakers completed both looks.

“Comfort, quality, style and Caribbean representation is what we aimed to go with, and I couldn’t be prouder to have designed these looks for the BVI delegation as they represent us in both talent and style,” said Frazer.

“This has been a unique experience for the BVI delegation,” said BVIOC President Ephraim Penn. “We are certainly looking forward to the coming days and to supporting our athletes as they enter their competitions to execute their races.”

International Olympic Committee President shared his message with the Olympic athletes, acknowledging the role of Olympic Solidarity that benefits the athletes along their journey.

“This solidarity is made possible through the generous support of all our Media Rights Holders and TOP Partners. All together we thank them and everyone who supported you on your Olympic journey,” said Bach before welcoming the athletes to the Games. “Welcome to the best athletes of the world – welcome, Olympians!”

The Olympic Games were officially declared open by French President Emmanuel Macron using the protocol formula. “I declare the Paris Games open, the 33rd Olympic Games of the modern era,” he said.

The Olympic flame was taken by torchbearers from the Trocadero to the Tuileries where the Olympic cauldron was lit by Marie-Jose Perec and Teddy Riner before it rose into the sky borne by a hot-air balloon.

The schedule for the ILCA 7 races runs from August 1 – 6 in Marseille in the south of France. Track and field events for the VI athletes take place at the Stade de France in Paris and start on August 3 when Brathwaite will compete in the 100m rounds starting at 5:45am AST. Hodge will take to the blocks in the 200m rounds on August 4 starting at 4:55am AST. McMaster competes in the 400m hurdles heats on August 5 starting at 4:05am AST.

Approximately 10,500 participants from over 200 Olympic Delegations will compete in 32 Olympic sports. The Games can be followed live on SportsMax Channels.

Team BVI ready for the Paris 2024 Opening Ceremony dressed in a uniform designed by Kristin Frazer of Trefle Designs
Paris 2024 Chef de Mission Tahesia Harrigan-Scott and Flagbearer Adaejah Hodge (200m)
Flagbearers Thad Lettsome (ILCA7) & Adaejah Hodge (200m)
Filed Under: Adaejah Hodge, Athletics, BVI Olympic Committee, Kyron McMaster, Paris 2024, Rikkoi Brathwaite, Sailing, Tahesia Harrigan-Scott, Thad Lettsome Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Flagbearers and athletes prepare for Paris 2024 Opening Ceremony

July 25, 2024 by

The four athletes that make up Team BVI competing at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games will take part in the Opening Ceremony on a 3.7 miles parade along the Seine River in Paris, from the Pont d’Austerlitz to the Pont d’Iéna starting at 7:30pm local time (1:30pm BVI time) on Friday, July 26. The named flag bearers are Olympic debutants Thad Lettsome, (ILCA 7 (laser)) and Adaejah Hodge, (200m). They will be accompanied by Kyron McMaster OLY (400m hurdles) and Rikkoi Brathwaite (100m), who will also be making his Olympic debut at the Games. Chef de Mission Tahesia Harrigan-Scott OLY will join the team.

“The Opening Ceremony of an Olympic Games is always such an exciting time as it symbolizes the start of the biggest event of an athlete’s career in a quadrennial,” said Harrigan-Scott. “I am so proud to be walking with our team who have worked so hard to make it to the Olympics. We are also looking forward to stepping out in style in the Opening Ceremony wear which was specially created for us by Kristin Fraser of Trefle Design!”

This will be the first time that an Olympic Ceremony will be held outside of a stadium. The BVI team will be on one of 100 boats along with other small NOC teams and will pass under historic bridges and by iconic landmarks, such as the Notre-Dame and the Louvre and some Games venues. They will arrive opposite the Trocadero – the esplanade across from the Eiffel Tower – where the official protocols will be carried out, the Olympic cauldron lit, and the Paris 2024 Games officially declared open.

Lettsome, who arrived in France in July 17, will be travelling to Paris from Marseille where the sailing events will take place. McMaster, Brathwaite and Hodge arrived in Paris on July 24 where they were welcomed by the Chef de Mission at the Athletes’ Village.

The schedule for the ILCA 7 races runs from August 1 – 6 in Marseille in the south of France. Track and field events for the VI athletes take place at the Stade de France in Paris and start on August 3 when Brathwaite will compete in the 100m rounds starting at 5:45am AST. Hodge will take to the blocks in the 200m rounds on August 4 starting at 4:55am AST. McMaster competes in the 400m hurdles heats on August 5 starting at 4:05am AST.

“The BVIOC is exceptionally proud of our four athletes that will be representing the territory at the opening of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games ahead of their events,” said BVIOC President Ephraim Penn. “The field of competition is tough, and we wish Kyron, Thad, Rikkoi and Adaejah the very best as they take to the biggest international stage in sport over the next couple of weeks. Their focus over the past quadrennial has been on securing their spots at the Games and to perform to the best of their abilities at the Olympics. We are excited to be cheering them on in each of their events.”

The VI delegation includes BVIOC President Ephraim Penn, Secretary General Lloyd Black, sailing coach Chris Watters, sailing assistant Tamsin Rand, National athletics coach Willis Todman, track coaches Gerald Phiri and Jean-Carlos. Sofia Fay attends as Press Attache.

The Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, Honourabale Sharie de Castro will attend the Games from August 1 – 10.

Approximately 10,500 participants from over 200 Olympic Delegations will compete in 32 Olympic sports. The Games can be followed live on SportsMax Channels.

Filed Under: Adaejah Hodge, Athletics, BVI Olympic Committee, Kyron McMaster, Paris 2024, Rikkoi Brathwaite, Sailing, Tahesia Harrigan-Scott, Thad Lettsome Tagged With: , , ,