Saint Lucia has added three more qualifiers for the CARIFTA Games, showcasing impressive performances at the National Junior Track and Field Championships. Key athletes include Jady Emmanuel, Gabrielle Facey, and Joaqwan Alexander, among others. The SLAA commends the youth athletes’ dedication and prepares for upcoming competitions, leading to the Games during the Easter weekend in Trinidad & Tobago.
Saint Lucia has secured three additional qualifiers for the upcoming CARIFTA Games, following the recent National Junior Track and Field Championships at Soufriere Stadium. Notable performances included Jady Emmanuel, who, having already qualified for the Under-17 girls’ 100m, further solidified her position by achieving a personal best of 11.66 seconds and meeting the long jump qualifications as well.
In the Under-17 girls’ 400m, Gabrielle Facey from Survivors achieved a time of 58.25 seconds, surpassing the qualifying standard of 58.40 seconds. Destinee Cenac from Morne Stars also qualified by reaching a height of 1.60m in high jump, marking a strong showing for Under-17 female athletes.
Terrick Plummer, Facey’s teammate, posted a commendable 10.87 seconds in the Under-17 boys’ 100m, surpassing the qualification mark of 10.99 seconds. Further qualifying in the U17 boys’ category are Ricardo Mann in the 100m and DeAndre Isidore in the 400m hurdles, both trained in Jamaica.
The Under-20 boys’ field features Joaqwan Alexander, who clocked 48.68 seconds in the 400m, narrowly meeting the qualifying time. Denzel Phillips, a dynamic competitor from Jamaica, is set to participate in shot put and discus throw, possessing national junior records and significant medal prospects.
In the senior girls’ division, the squad is expected to include Naomi London and Naya Jules, who both have successful track records. Jules, a two-time CARIFTA champion and pole vault record holder, aims for her third consecutive gold in the pole vault event.
The St. Lucia Athletics Association (SLAA) praised the efforts of all participants, reiterating their commitment to fostering talent and facilitating opportunities for athletes at both regional and international levels. As the Games approach, various athletes will compete at the Island Champs qualifiers and finals, enhancing their chances of selection.
In summary, the CARIFTA qualifiers have highlighted the exceptional talents within Saint Lucia’s junior athletics scene. With multiple athletes meeting or exceeding qualifying standards, the prospects for the upcoming CARIFTA Games appear promising. The SLAA’s unwavering support for developing young athletes remains crucial as Saint Lucia prepares to compete in Trinidad and Tobago this Easter weekend.
Original Source: stluciatimes.com