Over the weekend, Guyana’s track athletes showcased their prowess on the international stage, securing podium finishes, including two gold medals, for their respective colleges in the United States.
In the National Junior College Athletic Association indoor track and field championship held in Gainesville, Florida, overseas-based athletes Keliza Smith and Trevon Hamer emerged as gold medalists.
Representing Barton County Community College, Keliza Smith dominated the women’s 60-meter dash, clinching gold with a swift time of 7.37 seconds.
Meanwhile, in the men’s triple jump, Trevon Hamer soared to victory with a leap of 15.36 meters.
Smith’s success extended to the women’s 200-meter dash, where she secured a silver medal, crossing the finish line in 23.74 seconds.
However, her stellar performance was not limited to individual events, as she contributed significantly to her college’s overall success.
Elsewhere, Attoya Harvey, competing for Monroe College, exhibited impressive form, advancing to the final of the women’s 800 meters after securing second place in her heat with a time of 2 minutes 17.42 seconds.
Despite a valiant effort in the final, Harvey finished in sixth place with a time of 2 minutes 16.72 seconds.
Shaquka Tyrell of Monroe College also showcased her talent, reaching the final of the women’s 1000 meters.
However, she faced tough competition and finished in the bottom half with a time of 3 minutes 00.90 seconds.
In another competition, Revon Williams put forth a commendable effort, securing second place in his heat of the 600-meter race with a time of 1 minute 21.21 seconds.
Although his performance was noteworthy, it fell short of securing a spot in the final.
Adding to the list of achievements, Kenisha Phillips made her mark in the Big Ten championship conference, representing Indiana College.
Phillips clocked a personal best time of 51.72 seconds in the 400 meters, earning her a silver medal behind Savannah Sutherland.
As Guyanese athletes continue to excel on the international stage, their performances serve as a testament to the talent and dedication within the country’s track and field community.
By Travis Seymour