Team BVI

5 athletes to represent Virgin Islands at Trinbago 2023 Commonwealth Youth Games

August 2, 2023 by Admin

The British Virgin Islands Olympic Committee (BVIOC) acting in its capacity as the BVI Commonwealth Games Association (BVICGA) is sending a team of 5 athletes to represent the Virgin Islands (UK) in track and field at the Trinbago 2023 Commonwealth Youth Games. The 7th edition of the Games for participants aged 14-18 years, takes place in Trinidad and Tobago, August 4 – 11, 2023.

Chef de Mission Ms. Ericca Frederick, a coaching certified Physical Education teacher with extensive experience at editions of NACAC, Carifta, and the Caribbean Games, will be responsible for the delegation at Trinbago 2023. The cohort includes Cristal Daly (long jump), A’Sia McMaster (long jump), J’den Jackson (100m and 200m) Jonathan Lynch (800m), Jah’Kyla Morton (high jump) and coach Erwin “Redz” Telemaque. Mr. Ephraim Penn, President of the BVICGA, will be in attendance.

The Opening ceremony takes place at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Trinidad on Friday, August 4 when Chef Frederick will accompany Daly who was selected to be the flag bearer.

The events for the VI athletes take place on Monday, August 7 (100m and long jump), Wednesday, August 9 (heats – 200m, and 800m) and Thursday, August 10 (finals – high jump, 200m and 800m). The Closing Ceremony will be celebrated at Pigeon Point Beach Facility, Tobago on Friday, August 11.

“We are pleased that the BVI will be represented by a strong team at these youth Games,” said President Penn. “The selection was made from a long list of athletes put forward by the BVI Athletics Association and we should expect to see some good performances by the team members.”

Morton recently returned home with a gold medal in the high jump, which she won at the U18 NACAC Age Group Championships in Costa Rica. Her 1.74m (5’81/2”) clearance set a new NACAC U18 Girls’ high jump record as well a new National Record. McMaster, Jackson, and Lynch also competed in Costa Rica.

More than 1000 athletes from 71 Nations and Territories across the Commonwealth are registered to participate in the Games competing in events across 7 sports including athletics and para-athletics, aquatics, beach volleyball, cycling, fast 5 netball, rugby sevens and triathlon.

“The Trinbago 2023 organisers have done a great job to ensure that we are comfortable, well looked after and set to perform at these Games,” said Chef de Mission Frederick. “Our athletes are well prepared and the team spirit is high. Everyone is looking forward to competing as well as representing the Virgin Islands in the cultural exchange element of the Games and fostering friendships.”

The Commonwealth Youth Games is considered to provide an invaluable springboard for the developing athletes. San Salvador 2023 CAC medalist, thrower Djimon Gumbs and U23 NACAC double medalist, sprinter Beyonce Defreitas experienced their first success at a major Games when they won the territory’s first medals at a CYG. Gumbs and Defreitas respectively brought home a bronze in the discus throw and a silver in the 200m competing at the 6th edition of the Games in the Bahamas in 2017.

The Games have traditionally taken place every four years with the first event being hosted in Edinburgh, Scotland in 2000. The VI was first represented at a CYG at Samoa 2015 when athletes competed in track and field and tennis.

Click on the link for the full schedule of events https://www.trinbago2023.com/schedule

Follow the BVIOC page on FaceBook for regular updates and results https://web.facebook.com/BVIOlympicCommittee/

Filed Under: Athletics, BVI Commonwealth Games Association, Commonwealth Games, Commonwealth Youth Games, Trinibago 2023 Tagged With: BVI at the Commonwealth Youth Games, BVI Commonwealth Games Association, BVICGA, Team BVI, Trinibago 2023, Trinibago 2023 Commonwealth Youth Games

BVI Rugby 7s squad set to compete in Puerto Rico

March 16, 2023 by Admin

BVI Rugby 7’s Squad scrum down under the watchful eye of referee, Jorge Soltero, Director, Rugby Puerto Rico during the 2020 Founder’s Cup, Puerto Rico

The British Virgin Islands Rugby Football Union (BVIRFU) will be competing in the Founders’ Cup 7s tournament to be held this Saturday, March 18, 2023 in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

The “Friendlies” tournament will feature 2 competitive teams from Babson College, Massachusetts, USA. According to the BVIRFU, Babson 7s, who play in the USA National Championships, will be a force to be reckoned with at this year’s tournament.

The event will pit an experienced BVI squad up against the speed and fitness of the College teams as well as the highly spirited home team, the Puerto Rican Pitirres.

BVI was able to win the tournament convincingly in 2020 but the Puerto Ricans are persevering with their program and are expected to put up a strong showing this weekend. Babson, who are playing well this year, are also expected to be very competitive.

The matches will be held at Club de Futbol Fraigcomar and first kickoff is 4:00 PM with the finals expected around 8 PM. There will be a women’s rugby exhibition game mid way through the tournament.

The BVI squad consists of several experienced players such as the Thornton brothers, Roan and Rory, who both played competitively on the UK circuit while at University before returning home and running out for the BVI National squad on many occasions.

Emerging talent, young BVIslander and 2nd generation BVI rugby star, William Adamson is expected to be the team’s enforcer – putting down the big hits and moving youngsters out of his way at will.

National team coach, Stuart Fee will lace up his boots to play for the territory for the first time and big things are expected from the 110kg flyhalf.

With over a half century of experience between them, Tom Chapman and Ian Chambers are also expected to throw their weight around to put the American youngsters under pressure.

The full squad is a follows:
Rory Thonton
Roan Thornton
William Adamson
Stuart Fee
Tom Chapman
Ian Chambers
Alex Haywood
Luke Saltastall

Filed Under: Rugby Tagged With: BVI Rugby 7s, BVI Rugby Football Union, BVIRFU, Founders' Cup 7s, Team BVI

BVIOC announces team for inaugural Caribbean Games

June 22, 2022 by Admin

BVIOC announces the BVI team for the inaugural Caribbean Games to be held June 29 – July 3, 2022 in Guadeloupe. The Team includes 11 track and field athletes and 4 basketball players. (L-R front row): Steve Augustine, President, BVI Athletics Association, Ralston Henry, Chef de Mission, Ephraim Penn, President, BVIOC, Honourable Sharie de Castro, Minister for Education, Culture and Youth Affairs, Lloyd Black, Secretary General, BVIOC. (L-R back row) Chester Levi James, Physio, Beyonce Defreitas (100, 4×100), Shauliqua Fahie (3×3), Joy Victor, 3×3 basketball Coach, Djimon Gumbs (shot put), Malik Romney (110 hurdles), Malik John (400, 4×100), Diamante Gumbs (shot put), Arianna Hayde (long jump, triple jump, javelin, 4×100), Mikkel Bassue (100, 4×100), Kiara Woodley (3×3). Absent Jolene Bowens (3×3), Keithrece Smith (3×3), Xiomara Malone (long jump, 4×100), Ke’Andrae Campbell (100, 4×100), Zara Brown (100, 4×100) and Vadley Sylvester JR (400, 4×100). PHOTO CREDIT: CM Farrington

The BVI Olympic Committee announced the team of 15 athletes that will be representing the BVI at the inaugural Caribbean Games which are scheduled to take place in Guadeloupe from June 29 to July 3, 2022.

The athletes who will compete in the regional U23 Games were introduced by the Chef De Mission Ralston Henry at a press conference held on June 21 at the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports.

The 11 track and field athletes include Ke’Andrae Campbell (100, 4×100), Malik Romney (110 hurdles), Diamante Gumbs (shot put), Djimon Gumbs (shot put), Malik John (400, 4×100), Beyonce Defreitas (100, 4×100), Zara Brown (100, 4×100), Arianna Hayde (long jump, triple jump, javelin, 4×100), Xiomara Malone (long jump, 4×100), Mikkel Bassue (100, 4×100) and Vadley Sylvester JR (400, 4×100). They will be accompanied by coaches Ericca Fredrick and Eric Matthias J and physiotherapist Chester James.

The 3×3 basketball team comprises Kiara Woodley, Shauliqua Fahie, Jolene Bowens and Keithrece Smith. They will be accompanied by Coach Joy Victor.

Beyonce de Freitas will be the flagbearer at the Opening Ceremony which kicks off the Games at 7:00pm on Thursday, June 29.

“We are very excited to be sending a competitive team of track and field athletes as well as our historic 3×3 Women’s Basketball team, who are the first set of female athletes to be representing the territory in the sport in a regional event,” said Ephraim Penn, President of the BVIOC. “Beyonce de Freitas and Djimon Gumbs returned as medalists from the the Commonwealth Youth Games in the Bahamas in 2017. They did us proud then so we have high expectations that we may hear the Territorial Song for the first time at a major Games on this occasion.”

Honourable Sharie De Castro, Minister for Education, Culture and Youth Affairs shared remarks on the occasion. “It’s a great feeling when we send our athletes as ambassadors to the region and the world to celebrate and to show their Virgin Islands pride,” said Honourable de Castro. “We know, and are appreciative of, the hard work that it takes to prepare for Games such as these we want to put the full force of our population behind you in cheering you on and supporting you. On behalf of the Government of the Virgin Islands, we offer our full support behind Team BVI.”

The Minister went on to thank the BVIOC, the National Federations and the DYAS for the continued initiatives – the funding and the development that allow the athletes to continue to thrive.

29 countries will be represented by approximately 800 athletes and 200 officials competing in 7 disciplines.

The 7 sports include Athletics, Basketball 3×3, Cycling, Futsal, Judo, Netball and Swimming. The BVI will be represented in Athletics and Basketball 3×3.

The Chef de Mission will depart for Guadeloupe on June 25 ahead of the athletes, coaches and President of the BVIOC who will leave for the Caribbean Games on June 27.

The Closing Ceremony will be at 7:00pm on Sunday, July 3. The Games can be followed live on Panam Sports Channel.

3×3 Basketball team. (L-R) Ralston Henry, Chef de Mission, Ephraim Penn, President, BVIOC, Coach Joy Victor, Kiara Woodley, Shauliqua Fahie, Honourable Sharie de Castro, Minister for Education, Culture and Youth Affairs, Lloyd Black, Secretary General, BVIOC. Absent Jolene Bowens, Keithrece Smith. Photo credit: CM Farrington

Filed Under: Athletics, Basketball, BVI Olympic Committee, Caribbean Games Tagged With: 3x3 Basketball, BVI Olympic Committee, Caribbean Games, Team BVI, Track and Field

BVI secures 2nd draw against Cayman in CONCACAF Nations League

June 7, 2022 by Admin

GEORGETOWN, CAYMAN ISLANDS. JUNE 6th: Teamphoto of British Virgin Islands during the match between Cayman Islands and British Virgin Islands as part of the 2022 Concacaf Nations League held at the Truman Bodden stadium in Georgetown, Cayman Islands. (PHOTO BY CESAR D PAULI/CONCACAF/STRAFFON IMAGES/MANDATORY CREDIT/EDITORIAL USER/NOT FOR SALE/NOT ARCHIVE)

A tremendous second half performance saw the BVI Men’s National Football team battle back from a goal down to secure another 1-1 draw against Cayman Islands in the CONCACAF Nations League Group C action on Monday in George Town, Cayman.

There was little to separate the teams at the Truman Bodden Stadium, with the same end result meaning both teams have a pair of points ahead of clashes with Puerto Rico.

Early chances were squandered by both teams as Jamie Wilson saw his curling free kick safely smothered by the Cayman’s keeper, Albertini Hollness. Then, the home side had an excellent chance in the 10th minute, with Corey Smith sending a left-footed ball to the back post that was headed on goal by Jabari Campbell. Daniel Gilford made a point blank save, deflecting the ball onto the post and Jerry Wiltshire was on hand to complete the clearance.

The hosts went ahead in the 23rd minute from the penalty spot, when Trey Ebanks was pulled down in the box by Christian Javier, and Jonah Ebanks stepped up to convert to the left of Gilford.

Whatever words BVI Coach, Chris Kiwomya used at halftime showed immediate effect though as just seconds after the second half resumed, Wilson scored the equaliser. Luka Chalwell found Tyler Forbes with a slide rule pass into space ahead of the forward and he avoided the lunging tackle of Josua Frederick to put in a cross to the far post. Chalwell had continued his run and rose to nod the ball back across goal where Wilson was waiting, and although the keeper blocked his initial header, he reacted quickest to fire home the loose ball.

“The tactical changes in the first half worked and so did the plan to make more passes in the second half,” said Kiwomya. “We changed things a bit at the break, scored the goal and could have won the game. However, it’s small strides and the players are beginning to understand more and more about what is expected. We were forced to make changes, bringing on the likes of Quelani (Nickie) and Jake (Forbes), but kept our shape which was pleasing.”

“It always means so much more to me when I score for the BVI,” beamed Wilson. “I love representing the nation and all the people in it. I hope that they are proud of the performance that the boys put in. We created better opportunities to score, and our defensive set up has been highly effective. We can be a very stubborn team to break down; we have some big characters in the team and the future on the international stage is moving in the right direction in my opinion… onto Puerto Rico!”

“What character!” exclaimed FA President, Mr. Andy Bickerton. “We had to come back from goal down and gave debuts to two more youngsters in Quelahni Nickie and Jake Forbes. Onwards and upwards we go!”

Cayman Islands’ Joshewa Frederick Charlery had a chance for a winner just five minutes from the final whistle, coming forward and getting his head on a free kick, but it went wide and the teams shared a point.

“We got off to a good start and stuck to the game plan,” said Technical Director, Mr. Dan Neville. “An individual error gifted them a goal early, but we stuck in their and got our reward in the second half. We had chances to win the game in the second period and in the end showed great resolve to hold on and have to be pleased with a point on the road.”

Both teams now turn their attention to group rival Puerto Rico, with Cayman Islands hosting El Huracan Azul on June 9 and the British Virgin Islands traveling to Puerto Rico for a June 12 contest.

GEORGETOWN, CAYMAN ISLANDS. JUNE 6th: Kymani Bowens #18 of Cayman Islands drives the ball during the match between Cayman Islands and British Virgin Islands as part of the 2022 Concacaf Nations League held at the Truman Bodden stadium in Georgetown, Cayman Islands. (PHOTO BY CESAR D PAULI/CONCACAF/STRAFFON IMAGES/MANDATORY CREDIT/EDITORIAL USER/NOT FOR SALE/NOT ARCHIVE)

Filed Under: Football Tagged With: BVI Football Association, BVI National Men's Football Team, Concacaf Nations League, Team BVI

BVI Men’s National Football team ready for first home game since 2016, against the Cayman Islands on Friday at the A.O. Shirley Ground in the CONCACAF Nations’ League

June 2, 2022 by Admin

The hosts will be hoping that their second campaign yields more positive results than the first, which saw them finish bottom of the group despite some promising moments.

The Caymans, on the other hand, are eyeing promotion after narrowly missing out on League B last time around when they finished tied for first in their group but lost out to Barbados on goal differential.

Veteran Mark Ebanks has been banging them in for the Cayman Islands for over a decade and remains one of the top scoring threats on the team. He scored the goal in the Cayman Islands’ 1-1 draw with Bermuda during 2022 World Cup qualifying last year.

For the British Virgin Islands, most eyes will be on Tyler Forbes. Forbes impressed during the previous Nations’ League as a teenager, scoring three times and emerging as a young leader in the squad.

The two sides last met at the senior level during the first round of the 2005 Caribbean Cup, when the Cayman Islands edged a 1-0 victory.

Effectively the game sees the start of a new four-year cycle for the squad with many graduates of the BVI Football Association Youth Programs cementing their places and some making their debuts.

“It is a deliberate move and a policy of the BVIFA to introduce the youths to senior football,” said BVIFA president, Mr. Andy Bickerton. “The strategy has been to get our most promising youths overseas to not only play but gain education through study and the number of young players breaking through shows the idea has worked.”

Also, new Head Coach, Chris Kiwomya, will be in the dugout for his first competitive game since taking over the reins. “We have held camps during the buildup, and I am happy and confident with the composition of the squad. We are here to compete, play to our strengths, and how to win the game,” said Coach Kiwomya.

Kiwomya has been watching the younger players as well as the senior players and talking to all the local coaches to fully understand who can achieve what at this level.

“We have had to be careful with the players and the intensity of training, but we are taking each day at a time especially with games coming in a short time frame and assessing everyone before narrowing down to the final squad,” said Coach Kiwomya. “We must not get too far ahead of ourselves, it is a fresh start and there will be ups and downs, the players have to get the fans excited by their performance and over the next 18 months or so we can move forward, make progress and be a real force.”

After Friday, the squad heads off to the Cayman Islands for the return fixture on Monday, June 6 followed by a match against Puerto Rico on June 12.

Troy Caesar is also back as Captain having been unavailable for the more recent World Cup qualifiers. “We are here to compete, and it is great to see the camaraderie that flows throughout the players,” said Caesar. “Once we all listen and understand what the Coach wants us to do, then we will come out with a victory.”

Ikyjah Williams has already played at senior level, having starred for the U20’s and is now joined by many of his teammates from the tournament held in the Dominican Republic. “I’m excited for the game, I know we will compete, impress the Coach, and play to win!” said Williams.

Goalkeeper, Daniel Gilford has also been promoted to first choice between the sticks having been in and around the senior squad without getting a game. “Becoming first choice, I won’t let anyone down and have been working hard, like everyone said we are here to compete,” said Gilford.

“The BVIFA is really excited by being able to play home games again,” said Bickerton. “We are still working on the stadium at East End and once that is done there will be more games at home. For now, we are working with the Recreation Trust to host games, and are very thankful for their support, but playing home games is really important so the public can see the progress we are making.”

The game against Cayman Islands kicks off at 4pm on Friday 3rd June at the A.O. Shirley Ground. Adult tickets are just $10 and Children U12 just $5.

The full squad includes Mekhi Walters, Gilford, Ceasar, Jerry Wiltshire, Phil Nelson, Denvin Jones, Miguel Marshall, Justin Smith, Christian Javier, Giovanni Grant, Williams, Makimbo Demming, Quelani Nickie, T’Sharne Gallimore, Jamie Wilson, Liam Blok, Carlos Septus, Tyler Forbes, Luka Chalwell, Jake Forbes, Luca Reich, Levon Williams, Alejandro Santos, Tai Thomas, Gethin Jones.

Filed Under: Football Tagged With: BVI Football Association, BVI National Football Team, Concacaf Nations League, Team BVI

Jaleel Croal runs sub 20 PB in Cali 2021 200m finals. 3×3 basketball team perform valiantly against top teams

December 4, 2021 by Admin

Virgin Islands sprinter Jaleel Croal delivered a PB of 20.93 in the 200m finals at the Cali 2021 Junior Panam Games – his first major Games and season opener.

Pitching his speed against faster and older runners in the race, Jaleel did well to pull out all the stops to run sub 21 and place 5th. The new time smashes his previous PB of 21.10 achieved at the end of last season.

“When I got on the track my main goal was to have fun and run a 21 so after a nice start and execution and finish and a 20.93 – even though I came 5th – I was the happiest man on the track at that moment. There’s more to come and I already marked the guys’ faces!” said Jaleel.

Speaking after the race, Coach Ralston “Grandfather” Henry said, “This is the peak time of season for the sprinters from Ecuador and Brazil and to see him come and run that fast with them is a major accomplishment!”

Jaleel already qualified for the World Athletics U20 Championships with his semi-finals time of 21.24 and he will be back at the same stadium for the event next August 1 – 6.

The medals in the Cali 2021 200m went to Anderson Marquinez (Ecuador, 20.51), Lucas Vilar (Brazil, 20.59) and Lucas Rodrigues Da Silva (Brazil,20.68).

Jaleel and Coach Grandfather return home to the BVI on Saturday, December 4.

The 3×3 basketball team comprising Shakeem Tyson, Michael Richardson, D’/Andre Mitchum and Stephano Paul played their final group game against Venezuela on December 3. The team gave everything they had and put up a much improved performance with contributions from all of them. While they ultimately lost 22-11 they remained very much in touch with their strong opposition until the halfway point when Venezuela showed their class and pulled away. Since that match, Venezuela went on to beat Puerto Rico (in their final group game) and then beat Brazil in the quarter finals.

“After initially losing out 21-5 to Puerto Rico in their first match to only a day later be pushing Venezuela in a much closer affair shows how far the team has come in such a short amount of time,” said Chef de Mission Adam Murrills. “It also shows a strong mentality in their ability to problem-solve, adapt, work together and improve throughout what has been the BVI’s first International Competition for Basketball since 2010!

“Having spoken with the guys I know that they’re proud (and rightly so!) of how they performed and how they improved throughout the tournament and they’re keen to push on after this and hopefully experience more International Competition in the future!”

President Ephraim Penn who has attended the competitions from the start of the Games was impressed with the level of application and incremental improvement of all athletes and more so with the camaraderie and supportive attitude of the athletes from the different sports ensuring to attend the matches or watch live where physical attendance was not possible.

“The athletes and coaches all arrived as separate teams but as they leave these Games, they depart with a sense of one BVI team which is a very rewarding result in itself,” said President Penn.

“On behalf of the BVIOC, I congratulate Jaleel on setting a new PB coming off the blocks of the final at his first major Games. That he achieved this at the start of the season and racing against more experienced and older sprinters in the middle of their season is all them more exciting for what we can expect to see from him in 2022. Congratulations also to the 3×3 Basketball team who have done a remarkable job of holding their own in new territory. Thank you to the National Federations, their athletes and especially to their coaches, Ralston “Grandfather” Henry, track and field coach and 2nd Vice President of the BVI Olympic Committee and to Coach West for Basketball for committing to and executing admirable performances at these inaugural Panam Junior Games.”

Thad Lettsome, who is based at Lake Calima with his coach, Chris Watters finished the 2^nd day of the regatta with a 7^th and 6^th place for an overall 6^thplace at the start of the final set of races in the one-person ILCA7 laser today, Saturday December 4.

Coach Watters described the second day of competition as a “tough day”.

“It was cranking windy and we were closer to shore. The guys in 1^st and 2^nd place are in a race of their own; they have a good 15lbs on Thad. It’ll be a major focus for him moving forward. That and the downwind in heavy breeze flat water,” said Coach Watters. “He’s still not bad shape in the regatta. 6th overall but only 1 point from 5th. Bit of a gap to the medals but there’s some protests for 3/4 going on so we’re not out of it!”

The closing ceremony will take place on Sunday, December 5 after which the 3×3 team and BVI delegation will return home to the VI while Thad will return to Tulane University, New Orleans and Coach Watters to Florida.

Filed Under: Athletics, Basketball, Cali 2021, Panam Sports, Sailing Tagged With: 3x3 Basketball, Cali 2021 Junior Pan American Games, Jaleel Croal, Team BVI, Thad Lettsome

9 athletes to represent Virgin Islands in 4 sports at inaugural Junior PanAm Games in Cali-Valle, Colombia

November 4, 2021 by Admin

The British Virgin Islands Olympic Committee (BVIOC) has confirmed that 9 athletes will represent the Virgin Islands in 4 sports at the inaugural Junior Pan American Games which will take place in Cali-Valle, Colombia, November 25 – December 5, 2021.

The VI team comprising 1 sailor, 3 track athletes, 1 squash player and 4 basketball players will start to arrive into Colombia from November 24 ahead of the opening ceremony on November 25 and their events starting November 26. Chef de Mission and squash coach, Adam Murrills will be in Cali in advance of the athletes in preparation of their arrival.

“I have been working closely with the National Federations and the coaches confirming the athletes’ participation at Cali 2021 and ensuring that all processes are completed,” said Murrills. “I attended the Chef de Missions’ seminar in Cali in September and am satisfied that our athletes will be comfortably accommodated and will have the opportunity to settle in and train ahead of their events.”

The first athletes to qualify for Cali 2021 were sailor Thad Lettsome, who made his first major Games debut at the Lima 2019 Panam Games and swimmer Elinah Phillip, who made her first Olympic appearance at Rio 2016 and competed again at the Tokyo 2020 Games. Unfortunately, Phillip is making a health recovery and will not be able to compete at Cali.

Lettsome will compete in the men’s ILCA 7 single person dinghy on Lake Calima, December 2 – 4.

Making his major Games debut, Luca Reich will be the first athlete to compete at Cali 2021 when he faces his squash opponents at Club Campestre de Cali, November 26 – 27.

The 3 track athletes who are all competing at their first major Games are sprinters Rikkoi Brathwaite (100m and 200m), Jaleel Croal (200m) and Zara Brown (100m). The 100m races take place November 30 – December 1 and the 200m events take place at the Estadio Olimpico Pascual Guerrero, Santiago de Cali, December 2 – 3.

The VI will be represented in basketball at a major Game For the first time since appearing at the CAC Games in 2010 in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico. D’Andre Mitcham, Stephano Paul, Michael Richardson, and Shakeem Tyson have been selected to form the 3×3 basketball team competing at the Pan American Courts in Cali, December 2 – 5.

BVIOC President Ephraim Penn, who was elected as a member of the Panam Sports Technical Commission in April 2021, will also be in attendance at the Games.

“This is the second major Games since the Tokyo 2020 Olympics held last summer and we are excited for our junior athletes who will be taking to the international stage. For the majority of athletes representing the VI at these Games, this will be the first time competing for their country,” said BVIOC President Ephraim Penn. “At the start of the pandemic, the region’s NOCs were uncertain as to when the inaugural Junior PanAm Games would be held until the commitment was made by Cali to move the dates from June 2021 to the end of the year. We have embraced the opportunity presented to our young athletes who have their eyes on the future including the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, the 2023 Panam Games and the Paris 2024 Olympics.”

The Cali 2021 Junior Pan American Games is a pathway to the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games and Paris 2024 Olympic Games with gold medalists gaining automatic qualification to Santiago 2023.

The VI delegation to Cali 2021 also includes, Lloyd Black (Secretary General, BVIOC), coaches Chris Watters (sailing), Ralston Henry (athletics), Trevor Stevens (basketball) and physiotherapist, Levi James.

3,500 athletes from 41 countries will compete in 39 sports across 10 days of nonstop action which will be broadcast live and direct on the Panam Sports Channel and on CBN Television Channel 101 beginning with the Opening Ceremony on November 25 and concluding when the curtain is lowered on the Games at the Closing Ceremony on December 5.

Follow the BVIOC on FaceBook, Instagram and Twitter for regular updates and results.

Filed Under: Athletics, Basketball, BVI Olympic Committee, Cali 2021, PanAM Games, Sailing, Squash Tagged With: #teambvi, BVI Olympic Committee, Cali 2021, Cali 2021 Junior Pan American Games, Team BVI

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

August 9, 2021 by Admin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mixed results for athletes at U20 Pan American Track & Field Championships

July 27, 2017 by Sofia Fay

Source: VINO

Team BVI returned from the Pan American U20 Track and Field Championships, held in Peru. Photo: VINO

The recently concluded Pan American U20 Track and Field Championships, held in Peru, at Trujillo’s Chan Chan stadium, on July 21 – 23, 2017, provided a mix bag of results for the young Virgin Island athletes.

Team BVI were led, results wise by Shaniya Caul and L’tsha Fahie, with Caul running 24.90 seconds to place 8th in the 200m girls final and Fahie finishing the 100m in 7th with a time of 11.92.

Caul reached the final with a time of 24-93, whilst L’Tsha Fahie had a non-qualifying time of 25.69.

Rikkoi Brathwaite and Johnta Charles had non-progressing times of 21.98 and 22.52 respectively in the boys 200m heats.

Brathwaite had a time of 10.72 in the 100m final. Kala Penn had a best of 5.54 for 10th in the long jump.

“The athletes could all have done better,” commented Coach Dag Samuels. “Fahie for example was a little down after her 100m showing and should have progressed in the 200m. Caul too missed out on on the 400m and then ran her heart out in the 2. Kala (Penn) was also a little flat on the day, but in the Triple Jump she put in a new PB of 13.12m.. Overall the team performed above average and although missing out on podium finishes, I am proud of their performances.”

The final day of action also witnessed four championship records.

Adriana Rodríguez tallied 5733 points (13.37, 1.72m, 12.04m, 24.00, 6.00m, 35.31m, 2:28.50) in the heptathlon. Mexican Alegna González broke the meeting standard in the 10,000m race walk with 44:43.89 to win by more than a minute. Eric van der Els of the US won the 1500m in 3:43.16. And in the women’s 4x400m, the US squad –Syaira Richardson, Jaevin Reed, Arria Minor, and Takyera Roberson– won by nearly five seconds in 3:28.57, also a 2017 world U20 lead.

In addition, Jamal Walton of the Cayman Islands, fourth at the 2015 IAAF World U18 Championships, marked a special return to South American soil with an impressive 44.99 win in 400m, eclipsing the 10-year old championship record and becoming the 16th teenager in history to break the 45-second barrier.

Filed Under: Athletics Tagged With: Team BVI, U20 Pan American Track and Field Championships

Full results of Team BVI at 2017 CARIFTA Games

April 20, 2017 by Sofia Fay

By BVI Athletics Association

BVI Athletes at the closing ceremony of the 2017 Carifta Games April 15th – April 17th, 2017 in Curacao. Photo: BVIAA

The British Virgin Islands Athletics Association results of performances during the Easter at the 46th Flow Carifta Games April 15th – April 17th, 2017 in Curacao as follows:-

U18 MALES
DJIMON GUMBS Shot Put, Discus – Double Silver medalist

Established a new Youth National Record of 17.58m having broken the previous record of 17.20m which was held by him. He did the same in the discus establishing a new National Youth Record of 60.43m.

U20 FEMALES
AKIRA PHILLIP Javelin – Silver Medalist

Improved in her throw of 44.63m and earned a New National Junior and Senior record; old record of 41.70 m established by Britney Peters

KALA PENN Triple Jump

Bronze in the Triple Jump with a leap of 12.73m

U18 FEMALES

ARIANNA HAYDE

Javelin – Bronze medalist

Threw 41.90m to break her own National Youth Record.

Establish a new National Youth Jr. and Senior record in the Heptathlon with 4197 points

RELAYS
Bronze medalist 4 X 400 u20 Girls – Team consisted of Shaniyah Caul, L’T’Sha Fahie, Kala Penn and Sh’Kaida Lavacia.

4 X 400 U18 Boys established a National Youth Record with a time of 3:24.67 and placed 6th overall – Team consisted of Joshua Hill, Rackeel Jack, Jelani Norman and Malik John.

4 X 400 U18 girls placed 4th overall. Team consisted of Tashira Edwards, Zara Brown, Akrisa Eristee, and Beyonce Defreitas.

Other finalist as follows:-
Diamante Gumbs – U18 Shot Put – 4th; Discus – 8th
Tashira Edwards – U18 400m – 6th overall
Beyonce Defreitas – U18 200m – 6th overall
Kala Penn – U20 Long Jump – 4th overall
Rikkoi Brathwaite – U20 100m – 5th overall
L’T’Sha Fahie – U20 100m – 6th overall
Shaniyah Caul – U20 400m – 6th overall
4 X 400m U20 boys consisting of K’Cei Moses, Deron Leslie, Gevon Smith and Johnt’a Charles finished 4th overall
Team Officials –
Ralston Henry – Head Coach, Omar Jones, Carl Barrett, Jennifer King, Burt Dorsette, Chantal Scatliffe and Doug Arter

The BVIAA extends continued appreciation to the 2017 Sponsors of the BVI National Team to the Flow 46th Carifta Games. Major sponsors BVI Olympic Committee. Additional sponsors: Ministry of Education and Culture, DYAS, SOL, FLOW, Kenny Tees, Digicel, Johnny Hassan, CIBC First Caribbean International Bank, Colonial Insurance

The 2018 Carifta Games will be held in the Bahamas.

Filed Under: Athletics Tagged With: 2017 CARIFTA Games, BVI Athletics Association, BVI Olympic Commitee, Flow Carifta Games, Team BVI