Minister Simmons congratulates Kirani James

St. George’s, Grenada, July 22, 2010 – Grenada’s Sports Minister Patrick Simmons has conveyed congratulations to Kirani James on winning gold at the World Junior Championships in Moncton, Canada on Thursday.

James won the Men’s 400 metres in a time of 45.89 seconds to add the World Youth title to his accolades.

“Kirani is the future, and remains a role model for our young people in Grenada,” said Mr. Simmons in an immediate reaction to James’ gold medal achievement.

“I want to take this opportunity on behalf of the Government and People of Grenada to commend Kirani James and his family, the rest of the Grenada team in Canada and the Grenada Athletics Association for ensuring that the Grenada flag and anthem are prominently positioned on the world stage,” he said.

The Sports Minister said the government is committed to the development of Grenadian sportsmen and women and is manifested by the formulation of the soon-to-be launched national sports policy.

Kanika Beckles, who competed in the women’s 400 metres but didn’t advance, and coach Albert Joseph, completed the Grenada team at the 13th IAAF World Junior Championships.

James said: “I feel good with the win but the time wasn’t impressive to me or to the fans or anybody really.  I didn’t really feel any pressure but my legs weren’t going for me as I would like. It’s been a long season and I’m just glad it’s over right now.”

James, Grenada’s Sportsman of the Year 2009, became the first youth athlete to complete a 200/400 metres double gold at the 2009 World Youth Championships in Athletics.

Following this, he won the 400 m at the 2009 Pan American Junior Championships. This year, he added more victories at the Junior CARIFTA Games and the NCAA Outdoor Championships.