More than 1,100 athletes registered for Grenada’s 2026 Whitsuntide Games

by Michael Bascombe

ST GEORGE'S, Grenada, May 19, 2026 – More than 1,100 athletes from seven countries have registered for the 2026 Whitsuntide Games, which will be staged this weekend at the Kirani James Athletic Stadium.

Public Relations Officer of the Grenada Athletics Association, Kwame Hypolite, confirmed that the athletes will represent 59 teams, along with several unattached entries.

Athletes are expected from Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and host Grenada.

The Whitsuntide Games remain one of the Caribbean’s longest-standing and most respected track and field traditions, with a history dating back to the 1950s. Traditionally held during the Whitsuntide weekend, the meet has served as a major regional athletics showcase, attracting clubs and athletes from across the Caribbean.

During the 1950s through the 1970s, the championships became a staple on the regional athletics calendar and were originally contested on the grass tracks at Queen’s Park in St George’s. By the late 1990s, the Whitsuntide Games had developed into one of the premier athletics meets in the Caribbean, drawing many of the region’s top performers.

The meet received renewed momentum between 2000 and 2004 following the installation of Grenada’s first certified all-weather synthetic track. However, progress was interrupted in 2004 when Hurricane Ivan caused severe damage to the national stadium, forcing the competition into a lengthy hiatus.

After more than a decade away from the athletics calendar, the Games were officially revived in 2017 at the Kirani James Athletic Stadium. Since then, the event has steadily re-established itself as a key developmental competition for athletes across the region, while also serving as a qualifying opportunity for major international championships, including the World Athletics Championships.

Organisers are expecting strong competition across the various age groups and disciplines as athletes continue preparations for regional and international assignments later this year.

Live results for the meet are available via Milesplit Grenada – Whitsuntide Games 2026 Results.

 

Walters impresses in Germany as Grenadian athletes produce strong weekend

by Michael Bascombe

NEW YORK, May 18, 2026 - It was a weekend of contrasting fortunes for Grenadian sportsmen and women across the Caribbean, the United States, and Europe.

Grenadian track and field athletes delivered outstanding performances in collegiate championships across the United States, combining for a total of nine medals — five gold, two silver, and two bronze — while also establishing two national records.

The performances were highlighted by impressive displays at the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Championships and several NCAA Division I Conference Championships.

Away from athletics, Grenada narrowly missed out on a podium finish at the inaugural Association of National Olympic Committees of the Eastern Caribbean (ANOCES) Under-23 Men’s 3x3 Basketball Tournament in the British Virgin Islands.

Grenada lost 17-13 to the host nation in the bronze-medal match, while St Kitts & Nevis defeated St

Vincent & the Grenadines 20-15 to capture the gold medal.

Professional cyclist Red Walters also enjoyed an impressive weekend in Europe during competition at the Bahnen-Tournee Singen in Germany.

Walters finished second in the Men’s Elite Scratch race, third in both the Elimination and Omnium events, and fourth in the Points Race.

However, it was another disappointing outing for Grenada’s national football team, which suffered a 5-0 defeat to the Republic of Ireland in an international friendly in Spain on Saturday.

The result continued a difficult run for the national side, which has now lost all four international matches played this year. Grenada previously suffered defeats to Jamaica (1-0), Rwanda (4-0), and Kenya (3-0).

At the NJCAA Championships in New Mexico, Suerena Alexander of South Plains College captured Grenada’s lone gold medal at that level after winning the Women’s Javelin Throw with a personal best and stadium record of 49.57 metres.

Jaylon Calder of Barton County Community College secured silver in the Men’s Discus Throw with a personal best of 53.72m, while Devonni Ferguson of Indian Hills Community College also claimed silver after placing second in the Men’s 400 metres in 46.41 seconds.

Among the NCAA Division I athletes, Jamora Alves of St John’s University produced one of the standout performances of the weekend after winning double gold at the Big East Championships in Connecticut.

Alves captured the Women’s Shot Put with a season’s best throw of 15.46m before returning to break her own Grenadian national record in the Women’s Discus Throw with a winning mark of 55.89m. Her efforts earned her the Most Outstanding Field Performer award.

Jamara Patterson of Louisiana Tech also struck gold at the Conference USA Championships in Tennessee after storming to victory in the Women’s 400 metres in a personal best and meet record time of 51.43 seconds. Patterson later added another gold medal after helping Louisiana Tech win the Women’s 4x400m relay.

At the Big Ten Championships in Nebraska, Nazzio John of Ohio State University clocked wind-aided times of 9.90 seconds in the Men’s 100 metres and 20.23 seconds in the Men’s 200 metres, finishing fourth in both events. He also secured a bronze medal in the Men’s 4x100m relay as the Buckeyes clocked 38.72 seconds.

Meanwhile, D’Angelo Brown of Indiana University established a new Grenadian national record in the Men’s 800 metres with a time of 1:47.69, surpassing the previous record of 1:48.28 held by Nathan Hood since 2022.

Several of Grenada’s collegiate athletes will now shift focus to the NCAA Division I East and West Preliminary Rounds later this month as they continue their quest for qualification to the NCAA Outdoor Championships in Eugene, Oregon.

Alves, Patterson and Alexander strike Gold as Grenadians deliver Big Performances

by Michael Bascombe

NEW YORK, May 17, 2026 - Grenadian track and field athletes produced an outstanding series of performances across the United States this weekend, highlighted by five gold medals, two national records, and several personal best performances.

There were impressive results at the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Track and Field Championships in New Mexico, as well as NCAA Division I Conference Championships in Connecticut, Tennessee, Nebraska, and Alabama.

At the NJCAA Championships, where several Grenadian athletes produced personal best performances, Suerena Alexander of South Plains College emerged as the lone gold medallist after capturing the Women’s Javelin Throw title with a new personal best and stadium record of 49.57 metres. She also placed fifth in the Shot Put with a best effort of 13.45m.

Devonni Ferguson of Indian Hills Community College secured Grenada’s first silver medal after finishing second in the Men’s 400 metres in 46.41 seconds. Ferguson had earlier produced a personal best of 45.77 seconds in the preliminary round.

Joshem Sylvester of South Plains College also registered a personal best of 46.16 seconds in the preliminary round before placing fifth in the final in 47.00 seconds.

Jaylon Calder of Barton County Community College collected another silver medal for Grenada after finishing runner-up in the Men’s Discus Throw with a personal best mark of 53.72m. His teammate, DeAndre Bristol, was fifth with a personal best throw of 49.48m.

Both Calder and Bristol also competed in the Shot Put and produced personal best performances. Calder was sixth with 16.29m, while Bristol finished 12th with 15.24m.

In the Men’s Javelin Throw, Rayvohn Telesford of South Plains College recorded a personal best of 62.41m to finish sixth. Bristol also competed in the event and placed 12th with another personal best of 51.69m.

Shaquane Toussaint of Monroe University also delivered strong performances in the Men’s 200 metres. He clocked a personal best 20.26 seconds in the preliminary round and later finished fifth in the final in 20.37 seconds.

Shantay Augustine of Iowa Western Community College finished sixth in the Women’s 100m Hurdles in a personal best time of 13.67 seconds. She also anchored her team to sixth place in the Women’s 4x100m relay in 46.47 seconds.

In NCAA Division I competition, Jamora Alves of St John’s University emerged as one of the standout performers of the weekend after capturing double gold at the Big East Championships in Connecticut to secure the Most Outstanding Field Performer award.

Alves won the Women’s Shot Put with a season’s best throw of 15.46m before returning on Saturday to break her own Grenadian national record in the Women’s Discus Throw with a winning mark of 55.89m.

Her performances secured qualification to the 2026 NCAA Division I East Preliminary Round scheduled for May 27-30 in Lexington, Kentucky.

At the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Championships in Alabama, Kelsie Murrell-Ross of the University of Georgia placed third in the Women’s Shot Put with 18.02m.

Jamara Patterson of Louisiana Tech continued her impressive season at the Conference USA (CUSA) Championships in Tennessee. After clocking 52.56 seconds in the Women’s 400m preliminary round on Thursday, Patterson returned on Saturday to win the title in a personal best and meet record time of 51.43 seconds.

She later secured a second gold medal after running the second leg on Louisiana Tech’s victorious Women’s 4x400m relay team.

At the Big Ten Championships in Lincoln, Nebraska, Nazzio John of Ohio State University registered fast sprint times in wind-aided conditions.

John finished fourth in the Men’s 100 metres in 9.90 seconds (5.6 m/s) and later placed fourth in the Men’s 200 metres in 20.23 seconds (7.5 m/s). He also secured a bronze medal in the Men’s 4x100m relay as the Buckeyes clocked 38.72 seconds.

This marked the second sub-10-second performance of John’s collegiate career. In 2023, while competing for Butler Community College, he ran a wind-aided 9.96 seconds (4.3 m/s) at the Region VI Championships in Kansas.

Meanwhile, at the same championships in Nebraska, D’Angelo Brown of Indiana University established a new Grenadian national record in the Men’s 800 metres with a time of 1:47.69, surpassing the previous record of 1:48.28 held by Nathan Hood since 2022.

Several Grenadian athletes will now turn their attention to the NCAA Division I East and West Preliminary Rounds scheduled for May 27-30 in Lexington, Kentucky, and Fayetteville, Arkansas, respectively.

Walters continues strong international form with podium finish in Czech Republic

by Michael Bascombe

NEW YORK, May 10, 2026 - Grenadian professional cyclist Red Walters continued his impressive run on the international cycling circuit this weekend with another podium finish during competition at the GP Framar in Prague, Czech Republic.

Competing against a strong international field at the Prague Velodrome, Walters secured third place in the Men’s Elite Scratch race on Saturday and narrowly missed another podium finish after placing fourth in the Elite Points Race.

In the 30-lap Elite Scratch event, Walters finished behind Switzerland’s Alex Vogel and Argentina’s Mateo Duque Cano in a highly competitive contest featuring several European and world champions.

The Grenadian rider also produced a commendable performance in the Elite Points Race, finishing fourth behind Germany’s Moritz Augenstein, Ireland’s Kieran Riley, and Poland’s Dominik Ratajczak.

Walters’ busy weekend also included participation in the demanding Omnium event, where he finished seventh on Friday and improved to fourth on Sunday. The Omnium, often described as the “decathlon on wheels,” tests riders across multiple disciplines, including the scratch race, tempo race, elimination race, and points race.

The performances continue a strong season for Walters, who has consistently represented Grenada on the international stage while competing against some of the world’s top professional cyclists.

No host yet for CARIFTA Games 2027 as NACAC awaits Government guarantees

by Michael Bascombe

NEW YORK, May 9, 2026 - The host nation for the 2027 CARIFTA Games remains undecided as NACAC continues to await formal government guarantees from the two countries interested in staging the region’s premier junior athletics championships.

President of the North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletics Association (NACAC), Mike Sands, provided the update during a brief appearance on the latest edition of TalkSports on Saturday, explaining that both Saint Kitts and Nevis and Trinidad and Tobago had expressed interest in hosting the 2027 Games, but neither federation has yet secured the required letter of guarantee from its government.

Speaking while in transit, Sands first praised Grenada for what he described as one of the most exciting editions of the CARIFTA Games in recent history after the country stepped in to host the 2026 championships.

“I again say thank you to the government and the people of Grenada for stepping up to the plate and making the CARIFTA Games one of the most exciting CARIFTA Games ever,” Sands said. “CARIFTA is our foundation, and we have to continue to build on that foundation if we want our programmes to progress throughout the region.”

He also highlighted the increasing competitiveness across the region, noting that more member federations earned medals at the 2026 Games, including smaller territories.

“At the end of the day, even the smaller ones medalling says a lot about the work that the coaches are doing with their programmes,” he added.

Sands explained that following discussions at the NACAC Congress, member federations interested in hosting the 2027 Games were asked to submit bids accompanied by letters of guarantee from their governments.

However, despite an initial target to announce the host by the end of April, the process has been delayed.

“The deadline has passed and gone,” Sands revealed. “Neither of the member federations has been able to secure the letter at this time. We understand from both that it’s under consideration or with the cabinets, and we all know how our central governments work.”

While admitting to being “a little disappointed,” Sands stressed that he remains confident a decision will soon be made.

“Hopefully this week it will come through, and we’ll be able to make the official announcement based on our discussions with our council members and what is on offer from the respective member federations,” he stated.

Asked whether there would still be enough time for the eventual host to organise the Games, Sands expressed no concern, pointing out that both countries have previous experience staging CARIFTA.

“The answer to your question is yes,” he said. “I am not in the least concerned. They both have experience in doing it, so it’s not something new to our member federations.”

He noted that NACAC has adopted a more hands-on approach in supporting host nations.

“We have committed ourselves as a NACAC Council to be much more involved as opposed to just giving the event to the member federation,” Sands explained. “We stay very close to them. We have weekly meetings and information sessions to provide guidance, support, manpower, and whatever assistance we can lend to the local organising committee.”

Sands also used the opportunity to raise broader concerns about the growing challenges of sports financing and sponsorship across the region and internationally.

“We have to look outside the box when we’re doing these things because sponsorship is not easy to come by,” he said. “It’s not just for track and field or CARIFTA; it’s worldwide. We have to start thinking a little differently.”

During the exchange, TalkSports host Michael Bascombe reiterated Grenada’s strong connection to the championships, describing the island as “the spiritual home of the CARIFTA Games,” especially after its successful hosting of the 2026 edition at the Kirani James Athletic Stadium.

Electoral Reforms and Good Governance in Grenadian Sports

by Michael Bascombe

Another election season in Grenadian sports has come and gone, and once again, questions have surfaced about governance, transparency, and the credibility of electoral systems within some sporting organisations.

The latest discussions surrounding the elections of the Grenada Football Association (GFA) should serve as a wake-up call for sporting bodies across the country. While congratulations are certainly in order to Marlon Glean and his team on being returned unopposed for a second term at the helm of the association, the circumstances leading up to the elections also highlighted the urgent need for stronger electoral systems and governance reforms within sport.

There is absolutely no reason why disputes within sporting organisations should consistently end up requiring legal intervention or public controversy. Elections should be clear, transparent, credible, and guided by constitutions that are modern, properly interpreted, and understood by all stakeholders.

Time after time, allegations emerge whenever elections are due, concerning voter eligibility, club representation, constitutional interpretation, membership status, or the fairness of the process. Recommendations are often made afterwards, but very little changes.

One of the major challenges is that many sporting organisations in Grenada still lack strong and functional club structures. In some instances, clubs are inactive except during election periods. Without vibrant year-round club participation, there is little pressure for accountability, reform, or constitutional modernisation.

The issue is not isolated to football alone. Over the years, there have also been lingering concerns and tensions involving veteran sports administrator George “Goatie” Robinson and the Grenada Olympic Committee (GOC).

Robinson, who previously served on the GOC executive between 1984 and 1994, has maintained a long-standing and adversarial relationship with the organisation’s leadership. In recent years, he has openly challenged aspects of the committee’s governance structure and constitutional operations, even calling for restructuring within the organisation due to what he alleges are constitutional breaches.

Whether one agrees or disagrees with Robinson’s position, the broader issue remains relevant. When experienced administrators, former executives, athletes, clubs, or stakeholders consistently raise governance concerns, sporting organisations should not simply dismiss them as personal disagreements or political rivalry. Such concerns should encourage dialogue, constitutional review, and greater transparency.

Good governance in sports is not simply about elections. It is about protecting the integrity and future of organisations that are responsible for developing athletes, managing public funds, attracting sponsors, and representing Grenada regionally and internationally.

Strong governance creates confidence among athletes, coaches, sponsors, parents, supporters, and international partners. Sponsors are more willing to invest when organisations are stable and transparent. Athletes feel more secure when selection policies, disciplinary procedures, and developmental programmes are clearly established and fairly administered.

Good governance also reduces internal conflicts that often divide sporting disciplines and distract from athlete development. Far too often in the Caribbean, valuable energy is spent on administrative disputes instead of building programmes, improving facilities, and supporting athletes.

Sporting organisations must understand that they are no longer simply community clubs operating informally. Modern sport is now deeply connected to business, tourism, youth development, education, broadcasting, and national identity. That requires professionalism.

There must be regular constitutional reviews, clear electoral guidelines, independent electoral committees where necessary, proper membership records, financial transparency, and stronger communication with stakeholders.

Sporting bodies should place greater emphasis on succession planning and leadership development. Healthy organisations should encourage participation, fresh ideas, and healthy competition for leadership positions, not confusion, division, or uncertainty whenever elections arise.

Grenada has made significant progress in sports over the years, from athletics to football, cricket, basketball, volleyball, swimming, and other disciplines. However, if the administrative structures are weak, the overall development of sport will eventually suffer.

Perhaps the time has come for a broader national discussion involving sporting organisations, the Ministry of Sports, the GOC, legal minds, and governance experts on establishing minimum governance standards for national sporting associations.

Because in the end, good governance is not only about who wins elections. It is about protecting the future of Grenadian sport.

Team Duncan seeks High Court injunction over GFA elections

by Michael Bascombe

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, May 6, 2026 - A slate contesting the upcoming elections of the Grenada Football Association (GFA) has taken legal action in the High Court, seeking an injunction to halt the electoral process amid allegations of procedural irregularities and unfair treatment.

Team Duncan, led by Roger Duncan and former GFA Technical Director Trevor McIntosh, filed the application on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, arguing that the current process has effectively denied their slate a fair opportunity to contest the elections scheduled for Saturday, May 9. The matter is expected to be heard before the High Court on Friday, May 8.

According to the release issued by Team Duncan, the challenge centres on what the slate describes as breaches of the GFA’s Electoral Code, including concerns about timelines for nominations, candidate reviews, and communication with member clubs.

The group contends that the decision to convene an Extraordinary General Congress with only 37 days’ notice significantly reduced the preparation period for candidates. Under normal circumstances, a minimum notice period of 45 days is reportedly provided. Team Duncan argued that the shortened period left candidates with just seven days to assemble their slates and secure the required endorsements from eligible member clubs.

Among the concerns raised were claims that a register of eligible voting members was never circulated, making it difficult for candidates to identify clubs eligible to provide endorsements. The release also alleged that endorsement forms required signatures from club presidents despite questions surrounding the status of several club executives whose terms had reportedly expired.

Team Duncan further argued that no comprehensive guidance on the applicable statutes and electoral requirements accompanied the election notice, and that there was no meaningful opportunity to correct deficiencies identified during the submission process.

The Electoral Committee subsequently ruled the Team Duncan slate invalid for failing to satisfy endorsement requirements. However, the claimants maintain that the alleged procedural shortcomings directly contributed to their inability to comply fully with the process.

As it currently stands, the only qualifying slate is headed by incumbent GFA President Marlon Glean, raising the prospect of an uncontested election and the automatic return of the current administration.

In its application before the Court, Team Duncan is seeking several forms of relief, including an injunction postponing the elections, an extension of deadlines for the submission of slates and endorsements, disclosure of the official list of eligible voting members, and declarations that aspects of the process were inconsistent with the GFA statutes and principles of natural justice.

The slate said it remains committed to the development of football in Grenada and to promoting accountability, transparency, and good governance within the sport. 

Equity in Grenada’s Sporting Honours

by Michael Bascombe

It is both fitting and commendable that Grenada continues to recognise the achievements of its young athletes who recently represented the nation at the CARIFTA Games and the CARIFTA Aquatics Championships. These athletes and swimmers have carried the national flag with pride, discipline, and determination. Whether they returned home with medals or not, their representation alone is a significant accomplishment, one that deserves acknowledgement.

To represent Grenada on any international stage is not merely about podium finishes. It reflects years of sacrifice, early mornings, disciplined training, and the courage to compete against the best in the region and beyond. These young ambassadors gain invaluable exposure, develop resilience, and build character. They inspire peers, ignite national pride, and contribute to Grenada’s identity on the global sporting map. In many cases, they also open doors for scholarships, professional opportunities, and lifelong personal development.

Representation, therefore, must always be respected as a form of achievement.

However, recognition must also be equitable.

While the spotlight often shines brightly on athletics, understandably so, given our Olympic pedigree, it must not eclipse the accomplishments of athletes in other sporting disciplines who are equally flying Grenada’s flag with distinction. Basketballers Enel St Bernard and Akinde Redhead continue to make meaningful strides in collegiate basketball in the United States. Cyclist Red Walters consistently represents Grenada on the international circuit, while marathon runner Philomena Robertson remains a lone but determined figure carrying our colours in long-distance road racing.

On the sand, Renisha Stafford and Thornia Mitchell have brought pride to Grenada with their performances in beach volleyball. After securing a bronze medal at the Eastern Caribbean Championships in 2025, the duo elevated their game to claim the 2026 championship title in St Lucia this week.

These are only a few examples. Week in and week out, Grenadian athletes in track and field, basketball, football, and other disciplines are excelling at colleges and in competitions across the United States and beyond. Their efforts, sacrifices, and successes deserve to be recognised in a structured and meaningful way.

At present, the National Sports Awards, organised by the Grenada Olympic Committee (GOC), while well-intentioned, remain limited in scope and reach. They do not fully capture the breadth and diversity of Grenadian sporting achievement. As such, there is a pressing need for a more comprehensive and inclusive system of recognition.

Firstly, equitable recognition validates effort. Athletes who feel seen and appreciated are more likely to remain committed to their sport and continue striving for excellence. Secondly, it promotes national unity by ensuring that no discipline feels marginalised. Sport, after all, is a powerful unifier, and recognition should reflect that inclusivity.

Thirdly, recognition serves as motivation, not just for current athletes, but for the next generation. Young boys and girls across Grenada must be able to see pathways to success in multiple sports, not just one or two. When achievements across disciplines are celebrated, it broadens participation and strengthens the overall sporting ecosystem.

Additionally, recognising athletes across various sports enhances Grenada’s sporting brand. It signals to regional and international bodies that Grenada is not a one-sport nation, but a diverse and dynamic sporting country. This can lead to increased opportunities for partnerships, sponsorships, and development programmes.

Finally, a structured and equitable recognition system contributes to the historical record of our sporting achievements. It ensures that contributions are documented, celebrated, and preserved for future generations.

The way forward requires collaboration between the Ministry of Sports, the Grenada Olympic Committee, national federations, and private sector partners. Consideration should be given to expanding the National Sports Awards or establishing a more continuous recognition programme that highlights achievements throughout the year, across all disciplines and levels.

Grenada among seven nations endorsed by World Boxing

by Michael Bascombe

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, April 30, 2026 - Grenada has taken a significant step onto the international boxing stage after the Boxing Association of Grenada Inc. was officially endorsed for membership by World Boxing.

The announcement came as World Boxing’s Executive Board approved seven new National Federations. The other newly endorsed members include Antigua and Barbuda, Cameroon, Curaçao, Gabon, South Africa, and Vanuatu.

With this approval, the Boxing Association of Grenada is now eligible to participate in World Boxing-sanctioned events.

The move also signals that Grenada has met strict international standards, including governance transparency, anti-doping compliance aligned with global protocols, and the establishment of fair dispute resolution systems.

Vice President of the Boxing Association of Grenada Inc., Dr Deborah-Ann Stephens-John, welcomed the endorsement as a defining moment for the sport locally.

“This is a proud and historic achievement for Grenadian boxing. It reflects the hard work, structure and accountability that we have been building over the past few years,” Stephens-John said.

“Our boxers now have a clear and credible pathway to international competition, and this will serve as a major boost to the development of boxing across the island.”

She also pointed to the immediate opportunities now available to local boxers.

“Grenada has boxers who can participate in the Commonwealth Games. We have one based in England and at least three here at home who are actively preparing for that level.”

Emphasising the broader vision, Stephens-John stressed that success will be measured beyond podium finishes.

“It’s not only about winning; it’s about the development of the athlete, building experience, discipline, and long-term growth within the sport.”

She revealed that local activity is already being ramped up to support that development.

“We are preparing locally for an event in Carriacou in July and another on the mainland at the end of August. These competitions are important as we continue to build the sport from the ground up.”

This latest development follows a previous attempt by Grenada to secure membership in World Boxing. Last year, the Grenada Olympic Committee (GOC) raised concerns that led to the withdrawal of the application, citing that the Boxing Association of Grenada Inc. was not formally recognised by the national Olympic body at the time.

In response, the Boxing Association of Grenada Inc. undertook corrective measures, submitting the required documentation, including a comprehensive report outlining its annual activities and a structured programme for the development of boxing on the island.

The Association has been legally registered as the governing body for boxing in Grenada since 2022, strengthening its case for international recognition and ultimately paving the way for this successful endorsement.

Dr Stephens-John acknowledged the journey to this point.

“This was not an overnight success. We had to regroup, strengthen our documentation, and demonstrate clearly that boxing in Grenada has both structure and vision. I commend the entire team for staying the course.”

One of the immediate benefits of this endorsement is eligibility for participation in the boxing competition at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, which will be conducted under World Boxing’s rules.

“The opportunity for our boxers to compete at the Commonwealth Games is invaluable,” Stephens-John noted. “It gives them exposure, experience, and belief that they belong on the international stage.”

Grenada joins World Boxing as an “Endorsed Member,” a designation that allows competition participation but does not yet grant voting rights at the organisation’s Congress. Advancement to “Full Member” status will be determined at the next World Boxing Congress, scheduled for November 20, 2026, in Panama.

Should Grenada secure full membership, it would gain voting privileges and a stronger voice in shaping the future of international boxing governance.

World Boxing was established by a coalition of National Federations worldwide in response to the International Boxing Association's derecognition. The move followed persistent concerns about Olympic-style boxing’s international governance, in which longstanding issues related to sporting integrity, transparency, administration, and financial management had put the sport’s Olympic future in jeopardy.

Those concerns were repeatedly raised by the International Olympic Committee, ultimately leading to the IBA’s removal from Olympic recognition and creating the need for a new, credible global governing structure.

While the IBA, under the leadership of Umar Kremlev, continues to stage its own world championships and professional, high-prize competitions, it remains largely isolated from Olympic involvement due to the governance and integrity issues that prompted its derecognition.

With the addition of the seven new federations, World Boxing’s membership has now expanded to 175 National Federations worldwide, reflecting the organisation’s rapid growth since its launch in 2023. The body has already made significant strides, including securing provisional recognition from the IOC in February 2025 as the governing federation for boxing within the Olympic Movement.

Ready, Willing, Proven — Grenada Stands By

by Michael Bascombe

CARIFTA Games has once again found itself at a crossroads, and Grenada, as it has done so often, is quietly but confidently standing by.

It has been nearly four weeks since Grenada successfully hosted the 2026 edition of the Games at the Kirani James Athletics Stadium, yet there remains no official confirmation of the host country for 2027. Following the North American, Central American, and Caribbean Athletic Association (NACAC) Congress, President Mike Sands indicated that both Saint Kitts and Nevis and Trinidad and Tobago had expressed interest, but required time to secure government approvals, an all-too-familiar process in regional sport.

Time, however, is not a luxury the Games can afford.

Grenada stepped forward in 2026 after Guyana withdrew, marking its fourth time hosting the Games (2000, 2016, 2024, and 2026). That consistency is no accident. It reflects a growing institutional capacity, a committed volunteer base, and a proven partnership with broadcast and event professionals such as T&R Communications, whose production quality drew widespread praise across the region and beyond.

The 2026 Games did more than deliver medals, it also delivered credibility. High global viewership numbers and strong regional engagement have strengthened Grenada’s case as a dependable host nation.

So, the question must now be asked: Should Grenada formally position itself as the standby, or even default, host of the CARIFTA Games when others are unable to commit?

There is precedent in global athletics. The World Athletics Relays has found a consistent home in the Bahamas, providing stability, branding continuity, and commercial growth.

Grenada could replicate that model for CARIFTA.

Some of the key advantages include the elimination of uncertainty around hosting, ensuring the Games are never in jeopardy. Hosting CARIFTA brings a surge in visitor arrivals, athletes, officials, families, and media. This translates into increased hotel occupancy, a boost for restaurants, transportation, and local vendors, short-term employment opportunities, and foreign exchange earnings.

CARIFTA serves as a global showcase, and with international streaming and television coverage, Grenada benefits from destination marketing that money simply cannot buy. With partners like T&R Communications, Grenada can become the production hub for Caribbean athletics, opening doors for long-term media rights and revenue streams.

But let’s not romanticise the opportunity. There are real concerns that must be addressed.

Hosting is expensive. Without strong sponsorship and regional cost-sharing, repeated hosting could strain government resources. CARIFTA has always been a Caribbean Games. Rotational hosting ensures inclusivity and shared ownership across territories.

Continuous hosting places demands on the same pool of volunteers, facilities, and administrators. If Grenada becomes the fallback every time, other nations may become less proactive in developing their own hosting capabilities.

Perhaps the solution is not to declare Grenada as the permanent home, but rather to formalise a “standby host framework” within NACAC.

Grenada could be designated as the official contingency host, prepared, equipped, and financially supported by the region to step in when necessary. This would protect the integrity of the Games while preserving the principle of rotational hosting.

With Barbados already indicating interest in hosting the 2028 Games, the immediate concern is 2027. The window for decision-making is closing, and uncertainty only undermines planning, sponsorship, and athlete preparation.

Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell once joked that Grenada should “give others a chance.” But as the clock ticks, that chance must be taken, or responsibility must fall to those ready to act.

Grenada has proven that it can deliver CARIFTA at the highest standard. The enthusiasm for 2026, the strength of its partnerships, and the professionalism of its execution all point to one conclusion.

Grenada is ready again.

The real question is whether the region is ready to embrace a model that prioritises certainty, quality, and sustainability.

Because in the end, CARIFTA must go on. And Grenada, as always, is on standby.

Lessons from Grenada’s 2026 Penn Relays experience

by Michael Bascombe

Grenada’s participation in the 2026 staging of the Penn Relays once again emphasised both the immense value and the undeniable challenges of competing on one of track and field’s most prestigious high school stages.

No question, exposing our young athletes to competition beyond the Inter-Secondary Schools’ Athletics Championships (Intercol) is a step in the right direction. The Penn Relays is an institution that tests not only speed and strength, but discipline, preparation, and the ability to perform under global scrutiny.

However, participation at that level demands far more than enthusiasm; it requires early planning, structured preparation, and strategic partnerships.

The reality is simple. The Penn Relays does not accommodate late decisions.

With the 2027 edition already set for April 22–24, and registration codes typically distributed by February, schools have a clear window to begin preparations. That preparation must include early confirmation of intent (by September–October), structured training cycles aligned with peak performance in April, visa application timelines, fundraising strategies, and travel logistics and accommodation planning.

Too often, ambition is present, but execution falls short due to late starts.

One of the most underutilised advantages available to Grenadian schools is access to experienced individuals such as Phil Zodda.

With his deep understanding of the US high school system and direct ties to Grenadian athletes, including past connections to figures like Dr Sean Lambert and Lee Cuffie, who he coached at South Shore High School in Brooklyn, NY, Zodda represents a bridge between local ambition and international standards.

Engaging expertise like his could help navigate Penn Relays qualification and registration processes, understand event standards and expectations, structure relay teams and baton exchange strategies, and build relationships with US-based meets and institutions.

This type of collaboration should not be optional; it should be institutionalised.

The continued participation of the Grenada Boys' Secondary School (GBSS) must be commended, particularly given the logistical and financial burdens often carried by the Alumni International Foundation (AIF).

However, participation alone is not enough. There must be a deliberate effort to conduct post-event reviews (technical and administrative), build a multi-year participation plan, and develop a sustainable funding model beyond emergency fundraising.

A critical lesson from recent participation is that reliance solely on alumni support and last-minute sponsorship is not sustainable. Grenadian schools must develop their own structured, local fundraising programmes to complement external assistance.

This can include annual school track meets or relay festivals as revenue-generating events, community fun runs and sports days involving parents and alumni, corporate sponsorship packages tied to school athletic programmes, crowdfunding campaigns targeting the Grenadian diaspora, and merchandise sales (team apparel, memorabilia) linked to major competitions.

Fundraising should not begin weeks before departure; it should be a year-round, organised effort embedded within the school’s athletic programme.

By creating consistent revenue streams, schools can better manage costs associated with travel, uniforms, equipment, and preparation, while reducing the pressure on alumni bodies like the AIF.

If Grenadian schools are serious about sustained participation at the Penn Relays and similar high-level competitions, several measures should be considered.

There is a strong case for establishing a National Schools International Competition Calendar to identify key meets such as the Penn Relays, Florida Relays, and regional invitationals. This would allow for coordinated planning and reduce duplication of effort.

Additionally, a centralised support unit, possibly in collaboration with the Ministry of Sports, could assist schools with documentation, visa guidance, registration processes, and travel coordination.

Given that the Penn Relays is built on relays, schools must also invest in baton exchange clinics, specialised relay coaching, and maintaining consistent relay team combinations. Beyond the Penn Relays, schools should actively pursue participation in smaller US invitationals, Caribbean meets, and exchange programmes with US high schools.

Equally important is athlete readiness. Preparation must extend beyond physical training to include mental conditioning, understanding travel expectations, media engagement, and maintaining academic eligibility.

Perhaps one of the most important areas requiring urgent attention is talent identification.

GBSS once led the way in scouting athletes at the primary school level, a system that helped build generations of elite performers. That tradition must be revived.

Other institutions such as Presentation Brothers' College (PBC), Boca Secondary School, and St Andrew's Anglican Secondary School (SAASS) have already recognised the value of early recruitment, actively identifying and nurturing talent from both primary and private schools.

GBSS must re-enter that space, not as a reaction, but as a structured programme.

Previous Story: Grenadians shine and struggle at Penn Relays finale in Philadelphia

Grenadians shine and struggle at Penn Relays finale in Philadelphia

by Michael Bascombe

PHILADELPHIA, PA, April 26, 2026 - Grenadian athletes delivered a mix of standout performances and tough lessons as the 130th staging of the Penn Relays concluded at Franklin Field on Saturday.

Leading the way for Grenada were Nazzio John and Jamora Alves, both of whom made significant impressions at one of the world’s premier track and field meets.

John produced the highlight of the weekend, capturing gold as part of the Ohio State University team in the College Men’s 4x100 metres Championship of America. Running the opening leg, the Grenadian sprinter set the tone for teammates Kyler Brown, Nick Biega, and Marcus Brown, as the quartet stormed to victory in 39.56 seconds.

The triumph marked Ohio State’s fourth title in the event, adding to their historic wins in 1929, 1931, and 1932.

John had also qualified for the Men’s 100 metres Championship final after clocking 10.30 seconds in Friday’s preliminaries. However, he was withdrawn from the final alongside teammate Brown, with coach Rosalind Joseph opting to protect her athletes amid cold and rainy conditions.

The final was won by Gary Card of the University of Technology, Jamaica, in 10.34 seconds, slower than his record-breaking 10.03 run in the preliminary round.

On the field, Alves, representing St John's University, continued her consistent form with a fourth-place finish in the College Women’s Discus Throw Championship. Battling adverse weather, she recorded a best mark of 52.37 metres, narrowly missing a top-three podium finish.

Alves was edged out of third place by Morgan Graham, who produced a 52.52m effort in the fourth round, while Ines Lopez of Arizona State University secured victory with a throw of 54.44 metres. The Grenadian had earlier claimed silver in the Shot Put, completing a strong overall showing across the meet.

In the high school division, the Grenada Boys' Secondary School (GBSS) endured a challenging end to

their campaign.

After a promising 4x100m performance on Friday, the Grenadian champions were unable to replicate that form in the 4x400 metres relay, finishing last in their heat in 3:31.14.

Josh Thomas opened with a solid 51.58 split, handing over in sixth position among the nine teams. However, the team slipped back on the second leg, where Kashay Stephen clocked 55.53 seconds, leaving too much ground to recover for Nathaniel Alfred (54.04) and Karmal Joseph (50.00).

GBSS finished 202nd overall out of 522 teams that completed the 4x400m event, while their 4x100m effort ranked 80th among 582 teams.

Meanwhile, Bullis School of Maryland captured the highly anticipated High School Boys’ 4x400 metres Championship of America title in 3:10.15, becoming the first American team to win the event since Long Beach Polytechnic High School achieved the feat in 2007. The winning quartet of Zayden Saxton, Cameron Homer, Gideon Newton, and Quincy Wilson had earlier signalled their intent with a blistering 3:09.73 performance.

Previous Story: Alves claims shot put silver while John advances to sprint finals and relay showdown

Alves claims shot put silver while John advances to sprint finals and relay showdown

by Michael Bascombe

PHILADELPHIA, USA, April 24, 2026 - Grenadian athletes Jamora Alves and Nazzio John had impressive performances at the Penn Relays on Friday.

Competing for St John's University, Alves produced a strong showing in the College Women’s Shot Put, earning the silver medal after a dramatic contest on Friday.

After fouling her first two attempts, Alves rebounded in style, launching a throw of 14.95 metres on her fourth attempt to take the lead. However, Olamide Ayeni of the University of Delaware responded in the fifth round with a winning mark of 14.97 metres, narrowly edging the Grenadian into second place.

Alves will return to action on Saturday morning in the Discus Throw as she continues her busy weekend of competition.

On the track, Ohio State University sprinter Nazzio John booked his place in the College Men’s 100 metres Championship final after clocking a qualifying time of 10.30 seconds.

John will line up in a highly competitive final, highlighted by a record-breaking performance from Gary Card of the University of Technology, Jamaica, whose preliminary time of 10.03 seconds eclipsed the long-standing Penn Relays record of 10.10 seconds set by Leroy Burrell in 1990.

The Grenadian sprinter is also set to feature in the College Men’s 4x100 metres Championship of America final, after teaming up with Kyler Brown, Nick Biega, and Marcus Brown to secure qualification in a time of 39.59 seconds.

In other results from the meet, Jamaica’s Alphansus Davis High School placed sixth in the Girls’ 4x800 metres in 9:03.40, with Grenadian Ameiah Samuel, Chevelle White, Tabbrel Williams, and Alikay Reynolds contributing to the effort.

The school also featured in the Boys’ 4x800 metres, where Nicholas Frederick of Grenada, Tyrie Hopkins, Raheem Palmer, and Jephton Campbell combined to clock 7:55.07.

Previous Story: GBSS shows grit at Penn Relays 

GBSS shows grit at Penn Relays, turns focus to 4x400m

by Michael Bascombe

PHILADELPHIA, USA, April 24, 2026 — The Grenada Boys' Secondary School (GBSS) delivered a commendable performance at the Penn Relays on Friday, narrowly missing qualification for both the High School Boys’ Championship of America and International finals in the 4x100 metres relay.

Despite winning their heat in a solid 42.86 seconds, the GBSS quartet fell just short of the final qualifying position among the international teams. That coveted spot was secured by Puerto Rico’s Eugenio Guerra Cruz, who clocked a faster 42.26 seconds.

The GBSS team of Nathaniel Alfred, Karmal Joseph, Josh Thomas, and Kashay Stephen executed clean baton exchanges to take their heat, but ultimately faced the challenge of competing in a less competitive race, which impacted their overall qualification standing.

Head coach Nicholas Benjamin praised his athletes for their effort and composure under the circumstances.

“Our team has made us proud, running out in a heat without much competition and still producing a time that ranked us 81st in a 583-ranking list is awesome,” Benjamin told GrenadaSports. “We now set our sights on making a mark in the 4x400m on Saturday.” 

Assistant coach Lee Cuffie also commended the youthful squad, highlighting both their performance and long-term potential.

“We did very good in my view, with a fairly young team,” Cuffie said. “Kashay 14, Alfred 15, and Karmal 16. We have room for development. Last year the team ran 46 with much poorer baton exchange. However, I did as much as I can with the drilling of the exchanges and saw good improvement.”

In a field dominated by Caribbean sprint powerhouses, Jamaica once again asserted its strength, occupying six of the nine lanes in the International category with schools such as William Knibb, St George’s, Calabar, Munro College, Cornwall College, and Herbert Morrison. They were joined by St Augustine’s College of the Bahamas, St Benedict’s College of Trinidad and Tobago, and Eugenio Guerra Cruz of Puerto Rico.

Jamaican dominance was even more pronounced in the Championship of America final, where eight of the nine qualifying schools hail from the island, including Jamaica College, Kingston College, Edwin Allen, Excelsior, St Jago, Petersfield, St Mary's, and Wolmer’s Boys. The St James Academy of Virginia is the lone non-Jamaican representative.

Overall, GBSS finished 80th out of 607 schools entered in the High School Boys’ 4x100m heats. With 11 disqualifications and 13 teams failing to finish, a total of 583 schools recorded official times.

Attention now shifts to the 4x400 metres relay, where GBSS will look to rebound when they line up in the heats at 10:50 a.m. on Saturday. The nine fastest teams will advance to the Championship final, scheduled for 5:45 p.m.

Sports set to face biggest test

by Keith Joseph

Over the past several months, the immigration policies of the United States have changed significantly, to the extent that those seeking visas from almost any country may be more concerned than ever before in history about their chances of being successful.

Perhaps, more than anything else, is the reality that it is almost impossible to predict the nature of policy changes, as well as what can give cause for the changes, and uncertainty as to when such changes may be announced and enforced.

At the time of writing this piece, the next edition of the quadrennial FIFA World Cup is scheduled to begin in Mexico City, Mexico, in 48 days, with host Mexico taking on South Africa. Matches are scheduled for Canada and the USA in addition to Mexico.

FIFA remains tentative on precisely what, if any, guarantees it is able to give to any of the participating teams. Technical and administrative officials and supporters. At the same time, several citizens from several countries are under total travel bans, while others are under partial bans. Additionally, many countries have also been informed that their citizens are now subject to a bond of $15,000USD when making their applications for visas.

At this point, there remains much uncertainty in respect of whether players of teams that have qualified for the World Cup Finals would be negatively affected and what this would mean for the affected teams. Across FIFA’s membership, there is much to worry about in. the short time left before the first ball kicks off.

Although two years away, the XXXIV edition of the Olympic Games, due to commence on 17 July 2028, is very much under a cloud, much as is the case currently with the FIFA World Cup of 2026. Whilst many of the 205 National Olympic Committees ideally relish Los Angeles’ game-changing traditions when hosting the Summer Olympics, the International Olympic Committee, much like FIFA, must be looking at all possible scenarios in respect of the applicable visa requirements as the Games draw ever nearer.

The fact that the IOC has a recently elected new and first woman President who is still ‘finding her feet and hopeful of establishing her own legacy in the global Olympic Movement, does not make it any easier for all those nations whose athletes are in preparation for the world’s biggest sporting spectacle.
 
At this juncture in world history, while both the FIFA World Cup and the Olympic Games have had their fair number of critical challenges, the likes of what they are currently facing has never featured in the manner in which they find themselves today. Indeed, the world has never faced a near-crippling situation in respect of global travel as is the case today.

One clearly understands the rapidly changing geo-politics of the contemporary, which has many nations and their economies at their mercy. But the uncertainty that exists and for the immediate future, international sport will face its toughest test. This is not to say that we cannot overcome the challenges as has been the case throughout history. The current situation, however, has the potential to push two of the world’s most lucrative and exciting sporting spectacles to bankruptcy, whilst significantly upturning them and their own perceived places in global dynamics.

One can only hope that cool heads prevail and that all nations that so readily sign on to the Olympic Truce and extol the powerful virtues of sport on humanity, would come together is a major initiative that can literally allow sport perhaps its best chance to ‘change the world’. The Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC) is counting on this.

Keith Joseph is the President of the Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC) 

Grenada’s sprint sensation Ian George commits to Indian Hills Community College

by Michael Bascombe

NEW YORK, April 22, 2026 — Grenada’s leading high school sprinter Ian George has secured his next major step in athletics and academics after committing to Indian Hills Community College (IHCC) in the United States.

George, a standout at St John's Christian Secondary School (SJCSS), is expected to begin classes next semester as he transitions from the local track circuit to the highly competitive U.S. junior college system.

The move was confirmed by his coach, Gary James, who revealed that the decision to accept IHCC’s offer came after careful consideration, despite interest from multiple institutions.

“He will join Devonni there, and they’re familiar with each other,” James said, referencing fellow Grenadian athlete Devonni Ferguson, who is currently enrolled at the Iowa-based college.

The opportunity for George to reunite with Ferguson is expected to ease his transition into college life, while also providing a familiar support system as he adapts to the demands of collegiate athletics.

Indian Hills Community College has established itself as a respected pathway for emerging athletes seeking advancement to four-year NCAA programmes. The institution’s track and field programme has produced notable talents, including American Olympic medalist Kenny Bednarek.

George’s rise has been one of the standout stories in Grenadian athletics, with the young sprinter dominating at the Inter-Secondary Schools’ Athletics Championships (InterCol) and emerging as one of the island’s brightest prospects. His development under the guidance of Coach James and the Top Flight Athletics programme has positioned him for success at the next level.

Visa issues sideline InterCol Champions SAASS from Penn Relays

by Michael Bascombe

NEW YORK, April 21, 2026 — Grenada’s Inter-Secondary Schools’ Athletics (InterCol) champions, St Andrew’s Anglican Secondary School (SAASS), will not participate in this weekend’s Penn Relays in Philadelphia due to visa challenges.

GrenadaSports has been reliably informed that members of the SAASS team were unable to secure visa appointments in time for the competition, forcing the withdrawal of what was expected to be a strong national representation.

SAASS had planned to field relay teams in both the Boys’ 4x100m and 4x400m events, along with competitors in the Boys’ Javelin Throw and Triple Jump. The 4x100m team was set to include Randy Jones, D’Ron St Cyr, Crystophe Calliste, and Darell Daniel, while Teavughn Hall, Calliste, Daniel, and Phillip Mitchell were listed for the 4x400m relay.

Individually, Deshawn Smart was down to compete in the javelin, with Calliste also scheduled for the triple jump.

Former InterCol champions Grenada Boys’ Secondary School (GBSS) will be the lone school from Grenada competing at the meet. GBSS secured their visas in early March, ahead of the InterCol Championships, and will join approximately 16 other international high schools, alongside teams from Jamaica and the United States.

GBSS will be represented by Nathaniel Alfred, Karmal Joseph, Josh Thomas, Kashay Stephen, and Qwanell Pierre, as they take on a strong international field.

Grenada will still have representation through athletes competing for Jamaican institutions. Egypt Benjamin is expected to line up for Edwin Allen High School in the Girls’ 4x100m and 4x400m relays, while Dylan Logan will represent Kingston College in the Boys’ Discus Throw.

The Penn Relays, one of the most renowned track and field events in the United States, gets underway on Thursday and runs through Saturday.

SAASS’ absence is a significant blow, particularly after their historic InterCol triumph this year, as the school misses an opportunity for its athletes to compete on a big stage.

Welsh Backs National Club Championships to Boost Grenada Athletics

by Michael Bascombe

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, April 20, 2026 — Founder and head coach of Momentum Track and Field (MTF) in St Mark, Denva Welsh has thrown his support behind the idea of establishing a national club championships in Grenada, describing it as a timely initiative to strengthen the sport’s development.

Welsh, speaking on the TalkSports programme last Saturday, welcomed the concept of a competition exclusively for clubs, noting that the growth of track and field programmes across the island makes such an event both relevant and necessary.

“I think that is something that should be exciting and interesting,” Welsh said. “There are a lot of clubs in Grenada at this point, and something like that could further increase participation in athletics.”

The MTF coach believes that national club championships could serve as an important platform for identifying emerging talent, while also providing athletes with additional competitive opportunities beyond the traditional school-based structure.

“We could go on to identify athletes who can move on to becoming top regional and international competitors,” he added.

Welsh emphasised that the initiative would not only enhance competition among clubs but also contribute to the overall growth and visibility of athletics in Grenada.

“I like the idea, I support it, and it’s something we would definitely look forward to in the future,” he said.

Gamali Felix set for Big-Stage return at Tom Jones Memorial

by Michael Bascombe

NEW YORK, April 15, 2026 — Grenadian track and field athlete Gamali Felix is set to make his long-awaited return to elite competition this weekend when he lines up at the Tom Jones Memorial, hosted at the University of Florida.

Felix, expressing both gratitude and determination ahead of the meet, described the opportunity as a major step in his comeback journey after spending the past two years away from top-tier competition.

“Blessed and excited to be back on the big stage,” Felix shared. “It’s been two years since I’ve been at this level, and I’m ready to show what I’ve been working for.”

The Tom Jones Memorial is widely regarded as one of the premier meets on the international collegiate and professional track and field circuit, regularly attracting world-class athletes and providing a highly competitive environment early in the outdoor season.

“Representing Grenada with everything I have, and I’m just getting started,” he said, signalling his ambition to re-establish himself among the region’s top performers.

The Grenadian athlete is expected to face a strong 400-metre field, offering him the perfect platform to test his progress and measure himself against elite competition. Among those expected to compete in the quarter-mile are Matthew Hudson-Smith, Kyron McMaster, Christopher Morales-Williams, and Luguelin Santos, among others.

Fans will be able to follow Felix’s performance live, with the meet scheduled for broadcast on ESPN, while real-time results will be available online.

Looking ahead, Felix also indicated that he will be sharing more updates on his journey, inviting supporters to follow his progress as he continues his return to form.