MINISTER of Culture, Youth, and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr., has issued a strong reaffirmation of the government’s steadfast support for the Guyanese athletes who returned home on Tuesday after participating in the recently concluded CARIFTA Games in Trinidad and Tobago. Minister Ramson Jr.’s strong statement directly addresses the public disappointment expressed by some quarters regarding the team’s overall performance at the prestigious regional junior championships. This year witnessed a record contingent of 42 athletes proudly representing Guyana in the twin-island republic, a significant increase from the 23 athletes who secured eight medals for the nation at the previous Games held in Grenada. Despite the larger team size, Guyana returned with a total of five medals: one gold, one silver, and three bronze. Acknowledging the substantial investment made by the government in facilitating the travel, accommodation, and auxiliary needs of the extensive delegation to Trinidad and Tobago, Minister Ramson Jr. emphatically stated that this commitment to the development of Guyana’s young athletes remains unwavering. He stressed that the government will continue to provide the necessary resources and support as the athletes and the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) work diligently towards achieving greater success and a more substantial medal haul at future CARIFTA Games. Furthermore, Minister Ramson Jr. offered direct counsel to the returning athletes, urging them to maintain their focus and resilience in the face of any negative criticism or public commentary. He underscored the government’s firm belief in their inherent potential, dedication, and ongoing athletic development, encouraging them to use this experience as a stepping stone for future triumphs on the regional stage. Guyana’s medal winners at the 52nd CARIFTA Games included Tianna Springer, who secured a gold medal in the Girls’ Under-20 400m; Malachi Austin, who earned a silver medal in the Boys’ Under-20 400m; and Attoya Harvey, who added a bronze medal in the Girls’ Under-20 1500m. Ebo McNeil also contributed a bronze medal in the Boys’ Under-17 3000m, while Rodel Greene’s personal best leap of 15.50 meters in the Boys’ Under-20 Triple Jump on the final day clinched Guyana’s fifth and final medal, another well-deserved bronze.