Jamaica clinches 2 gold medals in first session of 51st Carifta Games

Jamaica kicked off the 51st Carifta Games with a strong start, securing two gold medals during the morning session of day one at the Kirani James Stadium in St George’s, Grenada. Zavien Bernard of Hydel High triumphed in the Girls’ Under-17 high jump, jumping 1.71m to claim gold. In the same event, Jamelia Young of Clarendon College clinched the gold in the Girls’ Under-17 shot put with a performance of 14.24m. Bernard’s victory came on the heels of her impressive record-breaking jump of 1.83m at the ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys’ and Girls’ Athletics Championships just a week prior.

Despite a strong showing from other competitors, including Alexandria Komolafe of the Bahamas who finished second in the high jump event on countback, and Trinidad and Tobago’s Tenique Vincent who claimed the bronze medal, Bernard and Young emerged victorious in their respective events. Young’s throw of 14.24m in the shot put event secured her the gold, beating out competitors from Trinidad and Tobago and the Bahamas. Her performance at the Carifta Trials earlier in the month also demonstrated her potential for success in this regional meet.

As the defending champions with a rich history of success at the Carifta Games, Jamaica entered the competition with high hopes of securing their 38th consecutive title. With a roster of talented athletes and a strong record in track and field events, the Jamaican team set their sights on continued success at the games. The event was broadcast live on SportsMax and the SportsMax App, allowing fans and supporters to follow along with the action and cheer on their favorite athletes as they competed for gold medals and regional recognition.

The victories by Bernard and Young in their respective events set a positive tone for Jamaica’s performance at the 51st Carifta Games. With a history of success in track and field competitions, the Jamaican team was well-positioned to make a strong showing at the regional meet in Grenada. As the competition continued, athletes from Jamaica and other countries showcased their skills and determination in various events, seeking to secure additional medals and establish themselves as top performers in the Caribbean region.

The Carifta Games provide a platform for young athletes from across the Caribbean to compete against their peers and showcase their talents on a regional stage. With a focus on promoting athletic excellence and fostering friendly competition among participating countries, the games serve as an important event for nurturing the next generation of track and field stars. By securing gold medals in the high jump and shot put events, Jamaica’s athletes demonstrated their commitment to excellence and set the stage for a successful campaign at the 51st Carifta Games.