The Tribune

By JONATHAN BURROWS

Tribune Sports Reporter

jburrows@tribunemedia.net

SPRINTER Ishmael Rolle became the first Bahamian in action in Eugene, Oregon, at the 2026 World Athletics Under 20 Championships yesterday, opening Team Bahamas' campaign in the men's 100 metres at the legendary Hayward Field.

Competing in the opening heat of the first round, Rolle clocked 10.48 seconds to finish fourth in a quality field that included Jamaica's Gary Card. Card won the heat in 10.07 seconds, Dai followed in 10.29, and Lubenda secured the third and final automatic qualifying position in 10.33.

With only the top three finishers from each heat advancing, Rolle's fourth-place finish brought his championships to an end.

Despite falling short of the semifinals, Rolle had the distinction of becoming the first Bahamian to compete at this year's global junior championships, which continue through Sunday at the historic Hayward Field.

The remainder of Team Bahamas is scheduled to begin competition over the coming days. The women's team includes Kei Mahri Hanna in the 400 metres hurdles, Saige Demeritte in the 200 metres, Alexis Roberts and Keyezra Thomas in the 400 metres, and Taysha Stubbs in the javelin.

On the men's side, Zion Davis and Javano Bridgewater will contest the 400 metres, and Joshua Rolle will compete in the triple jump.

The Bahamian contingent will now turn its attention to the remaining events as it looks to advance athletes through the preliminary rounds and challenge for places in the finals before the championships conclude this weekend.