The Tribune

FOLLOWING a two-day visit of the team from the North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletic Association (NACAC) to inspect preparations for the 2022 CARIFTA Games, a very favourable report was received.

Chairman of the Local Organising CommitteeMike Fennell is satisfied with the report, but noted that there is a “considerable amount of work left to be done to ensure the Games are successful.”

The report revealed “the organisational aspects of the preparation in detail is well advanced and professionally undertaken. This is noteworthy given the short time-frame available since the JAAA was approached to host following the withdrawal of Guyana.”

The report went on to indicate “there is evidence of a strong commitment to the realisation of a successful edition of the CARIFTA Games with every effort being made to emphasise Jamaica’s proficiency in the sport and in hosting track and field competitions in the year in which the country celebrates 60 years.”

Keith Joseph, secretary general and Michael Serralta, competitions director, were the two officials from NACAC.

The Rex Nettleford Hall at the University of the West Indies, Mona campus has been confirmed as the location for the athletes’ village. Praises were also made regarding the credentials of the team.

The April 16-18 Carifta Games will see the 49th staging following a two-year break due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

JAAA President Garth Gayle noted that “with most of the 27 nations completing their trials, we are excited at the opportunity for the junior athletes to compete against each other.”

The schedule for the weekend also includes a Congress, which is scheduled for Sunday, April 17), the location for the next year will be disclosed. The Games are set to feature over 500 athletes from 27 nations, including hosts, Jamaica. The Games so far attracted support and partnership from:

NACAC

World Athletics

PUMA

Ministry of Sport (SDF)

SportsMax - TV rights holder and broadcast host

Digicel

Massy Distribution

Wisynco

Stewart’s Auto

Recycling Partners of

Jamaica

UHWI

KLAS FM 89

Jamaica topped the medal table with 85 medals (36 G, 33 S, 16 B) at the 2019 edition held in the Cayman Islands.