Press Release: PREPARATIONS FOR GUYANA TO HOST CARIFTA GAMES 2027 UNDERWAY
Guyana has officially begun the process of preparing to host the 2027 CARIFTA Games, marking a historic milestone for the country as it prepares to stage the premier youth and junior track and field competition in the Caribbean for the first time.
North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletic Association (NACAC) President Michael Sands and John-Paul Clarke, Chair of the Technology Commission of NACAC, are in Guyana as part of the initial preparations for the country’s hosting of the Games. On Monday, the delegation inspected the National Track and Field Stadium in Leonora, which will serve as the principal venue for the Games.
The delegation met with Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, the Hon. Charles S. Ramson MP, Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, the Hon. Steven Jacobs MP, Director of Sports, Steve Ninvalle, National Sports Commission (NSC) Vice-Chairperson, Cristy Campbell and Guyana Athletics Association President Sheryl Hermonstine at the Leonora facility.
The visit provided an opportunity for the NACAC delegation and Guyanese officials to assess the country’s readiness and discuss the requirements associated with staging the prestigious regional championship.
Discussions focused on Guyana’s preparedness, infrastructure, organisation and other key areas necessary to deliver a successful CARIFTA Games.
The 2027 edition will carry particular significance for Guyana, which has never previously hosted the CARIFTA Games despite being a longstanding participant in the competition and producing several outstanding athletes who have competed at the regional and international levels.
The CARIFTA Games were first held in Barbados in 1972 and were formalised during the period of transition from the Caribbean Free Trade Association (CARIFTA) to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
