GUYANA has officially begun the process of preparing to host the 2027 CARIFTA Games, marking a historic milestone for the country as it prepares to stage the premier youth and junior track and field competition in the Caribbean for the first time since the Games began in 1972.
North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletic Association (NACAC) President Michael Sands visited Guyana as part of the initial preparations for the country’s hosting of the Games and on Monday toured the National Track and Field Centre at Lenora, West Demerara, which will serve as the principal venue.
Sands was accompanied by NACAC official John-Paul Clarke during the visit.
The delegation met with Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson Jr., Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport Steven Jacobs, Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle, National Sports Commission (NSC) Vice-Chairperson Cristy Campbell and Guyana Athletics Association President Sheryl Hermonstine at the Lenora facility.
The visit provided an opportunity for the NACAC delegation and Guyanese officials to assess the country’s readiness and discuss the requirements associated with staging the prestigious regional championship.
Discussions focused on Guyana’s preparedness, infrastructure, organisation and other key areas necessary to deliver a successful CARIFTA Games.
The engagement also represents the beginning of a collaborative process between NACAC and the local sporting authorities.
The 2027 edition will carry particular significance for Guyana, which has never previously hosted the CARIFTA Games despite, being a longstanding participant in the competition and producing several outstanding athletes who have competed at the regional and international levels.
The CARIFTA Games were first held in Barbados in 1972 and were formalised to commemorate the transition from the Caribbean Free Trade Association (CARIFTA) to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).