By Travis Seymour
Guyana concluded its participation in the CARIFTA Games with a notable achievement, securing a total of eight medals, including four golds.
The event, held recently, saw athletes from across the Caribbean region compete fiercely for top honors.
Jamaica emerged as the dominant force once again, leading the medal tally with an impressive haul of 84 medals, including an astounding 45 golds.
The Bahamas followed closely behind in second place with 35 medals, while Trinidad and Tobago secured third with 27 medals.
Guyana performed admirably, clinching fourth place with its eight-medal haul, showcasing its prowess in regional athletics.
One of the standout performances came from Kaidon Persaud, who secured a silver medal in the boys’ under-17 800-meter race.
Persaud displayed remarkable speed and endurance, finishing with a time of 1 minute 56.53 seconds, narrowly trailing behind Jamaica’s Keandre Kelly.
In the boys’ 4×400 relay, Guyana’s male team initially secured silver but was later awarded the bronze medal following a protest from Trinidad and Tobago.
Despite the setback, the team, comprising Malachi Austin, Jaheel Cornettte, Jamol Sullivan, and Dh Neilson Gill, showcased exceptional talent and determination throughout the race.
Athaleyha Hinckson delivered an outstanding performance in the girls’ 200-meter dash, earning a silver medal behind Jamaican Natrece East.
With a finishing time of 23.85 seconds, Hinckson demonstrated impressive speed and agility on the track.
Guyana’s mixed relay team, featuring Tianna Springer, Malachi Austin, Narissa McPherson, and Dhneilson Gill, secured gold and set a new record with a blistering time of 3 minutes 23.51 seconds.
Their exceptional teamwork and determination were evident throughout the race.
Attoya Harvey contributed to Guyana’s success with a bronze medal in the girls’ open 3000-meter run, further highlighting the nation’s talent in distance running.
Additionally, Tianna Springer and Malachi Austin emerged victorious in the U20 400-meter finals on the opening day of the competition.
Overall, Guyana’s performance at the CARIFTA Games reflects the nation’s commitment to excellence in athletics.
The athletes’ remarkable achievements serve as a testament to their hard work and dedication, showcasing Guyana’s potential on the regional stage.