In a significant step for the nation’s athletic development, Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Steven Jacobs, officially launched the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) 2026 CARIFTA Training Camp on October 25, 2025. This initiative marks a historic first for the AAG, establishing a dedicated program designed to nurture and prepare young Guyanese athletes for the prestigious CARIFTA Games.
A Historic Initiative for Guyana’s Young Athletes
The opening ceremony, held at the National Racquet Centre, signaled a new era of structured preparation for Guyana’s junior track and field talents. The primary objectives of the camp are to sharpen technical skills, enhance physical conditioning, and foster the mental toughness crucial for success in regional and international competitions. AAG President Amanda Hermonstine hailed the event as a “new chapter” for the association and the sport in Guyana, emphasizing the opportunity for young athletes to develop their abilities and gain invaluable experience.
Minister Jacobs’ Vision for Caribbean Athletics
Minister Jacobs, in his address, underscored the government’s steadfast commitment to investing in sports and youth development. He articulated that the training camp is more than just a technical exercise; it is a vital component of a broader vision aimed at elevating Guyana’s presence and competitive standing in Caribbean athletics. “Today marks a pivotal moment for our young athletes. This camp is not just about training; it’s about building a future where Guyana is recognized for its athletic prowess,” Minister Jacobs stated. Drawing from his own background as a former national cricketer, he expressed a commitment to bringing an “athlete’s perspective” to his ministerial portfolio, focusing on the empowerment of young people.
The CARIFTA Games: A Gateway to Elite Performance
The CARIFTA Games, a cornerstone of Caribbean youth athletics since its inception in 1972, have long served as a critical platform for identifying and nurturing regional talent. Founded by Austin Sealy of Barbados to foster regional unity, the annual event features athletes in Under-17 and Under-20 categories competing across a spectrum of track and field disciplines. Many globally recognized athletic icons have launched their careers on the CARIFTA stage, underscoring its prestige and its role as a premier development meet.
Building on Past Successes
This new training camp comes at a time when Guyana’s athletics program is showing promising growth. At the 2025 CARIFTA Games held in Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana fielded a record-breaking 42 athletes and secured five medals, including one gold, one silver, and three bronze. This followed a strong performance in 2024, where 23 athletes won a total of eight medals: four gold, three silver, and one bronze. The AAG has been actively preparing athletes through rigorous trials and previous training camps, demonstrating a consistent effort to enhance performance.
AAG’s Strategic Approach to Athlete Development
The Athletics Association of Guyana has adopted a collaborative and inclusive strategy for athlete preparation. Recognizing the collective expertise within the nation, the AAG employs an “inclusive coaching” approach, drawing on the experience of all recognized coaches nationwide to provide a comprehensive and tailored training regime for each athlete. The AAG plans to implement further strategic initiatives, including strengthening athlete support systems and creating career pathways for former athletes, reinforcing its commitment to long-term sports development.
Conclusion
The launch of the 2026 CARIFTA Training Camp by Minister Jacobs represents a significant investment in Guyana’s sporting future. By focusing on holistic athlete development and building upon existing successes, this historic initiative aims to elevate Guyana’s standing in Caribbean athletics and inspire a new generation of champions. The government’s continued dedication to sports development, coupled with the AAG’s strategic planning, positions Guyana for greater achievements on the regional and international sports scene.