The Tribune

Bahamian gymnast Kia Bazard has reached a significant milestone in her athletic journey, officially signing with Augustana University in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, where she will continue her academic studies and athletic career as a member of the university’s Acrobatics and Tumbling programme.

The signing represents an exciting achievement for the young athlete, whose dedication to gymnastics has been shaped by years of disciplined training, personal sacrifice and the support of coaches and family members in both The Bahamas and the United States. Her transition to collegiate athletics is another encouraging example of the opportunities available to talented Bahamian athletes pursuing their sporting ambitions at the international level.

Bazard's signing comes at an especially exciting time, as she prepares to represent The Bahamas at the 2026 CARIFTA Artistic Gymnastics Championships, scheduled to take place in Nassau from November 13–16. She will have the distinction of serving as captain of Team Bahamas, leading her fellow gymnasts as the country hosts the regional championships for the first time. Competing before a home crowd will make the occasion particularly meaningful, giving Bazard an opportunity to represent her country while celebrating this important step in her sporting career.

Her development has benefited from the guidance of dedicated coaches in both countries. Special recognition goes to Rashad Cunningham of Airborne Gymnastics in Nassau, Bahamas, whose contribution to her development has been an important part of her gymnastics journey. The family also extends sincere appreciation to Sydney Johnson-Scharpf and the entire coaching team at Brandy's Gymnastics in Orlando, Florida, for their continued instruction, encouragement and commitment to helping Kia develop her abilities and prepare for the demands of collegiate competition.

The Bazard family also wishes to express special thanks to the Bahamas Ministry of Sports for its support of Kia and the continued development of gymnastics in The Bahamas. Such support plays an important role in helping young athletes gain competitive experience, represent their country and pursue opportunities for advancement through sport.

As Kia prepares for the next chapter at Augustana University, her immediate focus remains on representing The Bahamas with pride at the upcoming CARIFTA Championships. Her family looks forward to the competition and encourages the Bahamian public to come out in support of Team Bahamas as these young athletes showcase their abilities against regional competitors.

Kia's signing is a proud moment for her family, coaches and supporters, and a reminder of the opportunities that can emerge when athletic talent is nurtured through consistent training, mentorship and national support. The hope is that her achievement will encourage other young Bahamian gymnasts to pursue their ambitions with similar determination.