Strategic investment driving Guyana’s CARIFTA ambitions – Director of Sport

With Guyana’s 24-member athletics team set to compete at the 53rd edition of the CARIFTA Games in Grenada, Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle has underscored the critical role of sustained government investment in shaping the country’s growing success in track and field.

The championships, which run from April 4–6 at the Kirani James Stadium in St George’s, mark the fourth time Grenada hosts the prestigious regional event.

Speaking during a courtesy call by the national contingent at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Ninvalle pointed to the Government of Guyana’s deliberate and strategic support for athletics, particularly under the leadership of Minister Charles Ramson Jr.

“The Government has made a conscious decision to invest heavily in sport, and track and field has been one of the major beneficiaries of that vision,” Ninvalle told the athletes. “We are seeing the results of that investment through improved performances, better preparation, and greater opportunities for our athletes to develop both locally and internationally.”

Ninvalle further highlighted the strong working relationship between the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Athletics Association of Guyana, noting that collaboration has been key to the sport’s upward trajectory.

“The NSC continues to work closely with the AAG to ensure that our athletes are provided with the necessary resources, training environments, and exposure. That partnership is crucial if we are to sustain success and build a strong pipeline of talent,” he said.

In a move aimed at strengthening oversight and support, Ninvalle will accompany the team to Grenada alongside NSC Vice Chair Cristy Campbell.

The decision follows the challenges faced during the 2023 Games in the Bahamas, with officials keen to ensure a more structured and seamless experience for the athletes this time around.

Campbell urged the athletes to exercise discipline throughout the championship, both on and off the track.

She also reminded them of their role as ambassadors of the nation, a status that comes with certain responsibilities.

Guyana’s campaign will be spearheaded by a blend of experienced returnees and promising young talent.

Among the standout names is Tianna Springer, who will compete in the Girls Under-20 category. Now representing the University of Georgia, Springer is expected to defend her title and remains one of Guyana’s strongest medal prospects.

However, it was revealed that Guyana will be without rising sprint sensation Athaleyha Hinckson, who recently secured an Adidas NIL deal as a freshman at Louisiana State University.

Hinckson was down to contest the Girls U20 100m and 200m events.
On the boys’ side, Malachi Austin returns to the U20 division following an impressive 2025 season. Now based at LSU, Austin is set to compete in the 400m, as well as the 4x400m and mixed 4x400m relays.

In the Girls U17 category, Angela Jeffery will line up in the 100m and 200m, while Olivia Solomon takes on the challenging 400m and 800m double.

The Boys U17 squad also carries significant depth, with Omari Welch (100m, long jump), Malique Kendall (100m, 200m), Jerrel Campbell (400m, long jump), Jermaine Shepherd (800m, 1500m), and Bryson Anderson (800m) all expected to make their mark.

Guyana will also feature strongly in the field events, with Keimal Gishard competing in the triple jump and high jump, and Nathaniel Samaroo entered in both the shot put and discus.

At the Under-20 level, Onesi Dunn and Gordon Thompson will contest the 100m, while Tishaun Easton and Dequan Farrell are set for the 200m, with Farrell also doubling in the 400m.

Middle-distance events will see Javon Roberts in the 800m and 1500m, while Ebo McNeil tackles the 1500m and 5000m. Kaidon Persaud will represent in the javelin.

Relay events are once again expected to provide Guyana with strong medal opportunities.

The U20 boys’ 4x400m team, led by Austin and Farrell, is tipped to be highly competitive, while the mixed 4x400m relay featuring Austin, Persaud, Springer and Akela Dover could challenge for a podium finish. ( NSC Press Release)