ST GEORGE'S, Grenada, November 1, 2025 - Grenada officially launched the 53rd CARIFTA Games on Thursday, signalling the start of preparations for the region’s premier youth athletics event, which will be staged from April 2–6, 2026, at the Kirani James Athletic Stadium.
Government officials, members of the Grenada Athletic Association (GAA), the Grenada Olympic Committee, NACAC representatives, sponsors, and other key partners attended the ceremony, marking yet another proud moment in the island’s sporting history.
The 2026 edition will be the fourth time Grenada hosts the Games, following successful stagings in 2000, 2016, and 2024 — making the Spice Isle the first nation ever to host CARIFTA in consecutive years.
Francis: “Grenada is ready — again”
President of the Grenada Athletic Association, Conrad Francis, described the moment as both unexpected and extraordinary.
Grenada stepped forward to host after Guyana withdrew earlier this year. According to Francis, the decision to accept the challenge reflected the nation’s deep commitment to regional development and its established capabilities in hosting world-class events.
“We were chosen not because we are wealthy in economic terms,” he said, “but because we are rich in our commitment to Caribbean unity, our proven track record in hosting major sporting events, our readiness, and our unmatched hospitality.”
Francis highlighted Grenada’s historic sporting legacy, referencing not only past CARIFTA Games but also the iconic Whitsuntide Games of the 1950s. He noted that the existing organising framework from 2024 remained intact, allowing for a quick and efficient re-activation.
“With one voice, the Caribbean asked whether Grenada could rise to the occasion,” Francis recalled. “Our government did not hesitate. They embraced the opportunity wholeheartedly. And so, here we are today, ready to deliver once more for the Caribbean family.”
Chair of the Local Organising Committee, Veda Bruno-Victor, assured that planning is already at an advanced stage, with valuable lessons applied from 2024 — especially in accommodation and transportation.
“This time, we have secured major accommodation facilities early, with support from the National Lottery Authority,” she noted. “Our committee chairs are leaving no stone unturned to deliver the best CARIFTA Games the Caribbean has ever seen.”
Bruno-Victor urged Grenadians to rally behind the young athletes.
“Today’s athletes are tomorrow’s Olympians. We want the entire nation to come out, support them, and witness history in the making,” she said.
She also announced initial discussions with Caribbean Airlines to assist with travel options for teams and supporters and unveiled Wellsi — the official mascot for CARIFTA 2026, inspired by Grenada’s national dove.
Representing NACAC President Mike Sands, NACAC Council Member Brendan Williams praised Grenada’s leadership and commitment to Caribbean athletics.
“Grenada’s decision to host again in 2026 speaks volumes about your organisational capacity and devotion to youth and sport development,” he stated. “This is more than logistics — it is about dreams, hope, and opportunity.”
Williams encouraged young athletes to embrace the challenge ahead.
“Train deliberately and dare to dream without limits,” he urged. “The journey to Grenada begins now.”
He reaffirmed NACAC’s confidence in the host nation, adding:
“We are proud to stand with you. Grenada will once again deliver a celebration of youth, sport, and Caribbean unity that will be remembered for years to come.”
Grenada — home to Olympic and World champions Kirani James, Anderson Peters, and Lindon Victor — now positions itself once again to welcome the next generation of Caribbean stars.
No comments:
Post a Comment