ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, April 9,
2026 - Grenada’s Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell has announced plans to
install an artificial athletics track at Progress Park in St Andrew, as part of
the government’s continued investment in grassroots sports development.
Speaking to GrenadaSports
on the final day of the 53rd CARIFTA Games at the Kirani James Athletic Stadium,
Mitchell said the initiative is aimed at strengthening the pathway for young
athletes across the island.
“We intend to have an artificial
track laid at Progress Park,” the Prime Minister revealed. “St Andrew is
clearly a mecca for track and field, and we want to ensure that athletes have
access to the right facilities to continue their development.”
Mitchell explained that the move
forms part of a broader strategy to enhance sporting infrastructure, promote
physical activity, and prepare athletes for international competition.
“We are making sure that
conditions mirror international standards as early as possible,” he said. “When
our athletes transition to the national stadium, to CARIFTA, and beyond, they
are already accustomed to that level.”
The Prime Minister also
highlighted ongoing efforts to upgrade playing fields across Grenada, including
the installation of lighting to encourage community use.
“It’s about more than
competition,” he noted. “We want families to come out, exercise, and engage in
healthy lifestyles. That is important for national development.”
Reflecting on the successful
staging of the CARIFTA Games, Mitchell praised the collective effort that made
the 2026 edition possible.
“The crowds grew every day, which
shows that people are enjoying the event,” he said. “I want to thank the
volunteers, sponsors, officials, and everyone involved in delivering what has
been an amazing Games.”
Beyond infrastructure, Mitchell
emphasised the importance of a holistic approach to athlete development,
including nutrition, coaching, and structured support systems.
“We must pay attention to
nutrition and ensure our coaches are continuously trained and upgraded,” he
said. “We also need strong club systems to support athletes transitioning out
of secondary school.”
He pointed to the role of the
National Sports Council and the Ministry of Youth and Sports in building a
sustainable framework for long-term success.
“We now have a structure in place
to support our athletes beyond the school system,” Mitchell added.
On the performance side, the
Prime Minister expressed confidence in the region’s athletic potential,
describing the Caribbean as a global powerhouse in track and field.
“The talent is there,” he said.
“I believe the Caribbean has the highest concentration of track and field
talent per capita in the world.”
Mitchell also acknowledged the
inspiration provided by national icons such as Kirani James, noting their
impact on the next generation of athletes.
As for Grenada’s future as a host
nation, the Prime Minister struck a balanced tone, supporting wider regional
participation while remaining proud of the country’s recent achievements.
“We’ve done our part in hosting,
and other countries deserve the opportunity as well,” he said. “But we will
continue to support the development of athletics across the Caribbean.”
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