Saint Lucia has added three more qualifiers for the CARIFTA Games after the National Junior Track and Field Championships, with impressive performances across various events. Notable athletes include Jady Emmanuel, Gabrielle Facey, Terrick Plummer, Joaqwan Alexander, and Denzel Phillips. The SLAA has commended the dedication of all competitors, emphasizing support for young athletes. The Games will occur over Easter weekend in Trinidad & Tobago, further motivating local athletes.
Saint Lucia has secured three additional qualifiers for the upcoming CARIFTA Games following the recent National Junior Track and Field Championships held at the Soufriere Stadium. The two-day meet witnessed impressive performances from several athletes aiming for excellence in their respective events.
Jady Emmanuel distinguished herself by winning the Under-17 girls’ 100m with a remarkable personal best of 11.66 seconds. In addition to her qualification in this event, she also met the standard for the Under-17 long jump, showcasing her exceptional versatility.
Gabrielle Facey, representing Survivors, won the Under-17 girls’ 400m with a time of 58.25 seconds, surpassing the qualifying standard of 58.40 seconds. Meanwhile, her fellow teammate Destinee Cenac of Morne Stars qualified in the high jump, clearing the height of 1.60m on two occasions.
In the Under-17 boys’ division, Terrick Plummer achieved a time of 10.87 seconds in the 100m, comfortably meeting the qualifying mark of 10.99 seconds. Ricardo Mann and DeAndre Isidore, who are both based in Jamaica, also achieved qualifications in the 100m and 400m hurdles, respectively.
Joaqwan Alexander posted an impressive time of 48.68 seconds in the Under-20 boys’ 400m, narrowly exceeding the qualification standard. Additionally, Jamaica-based Denzel Phillips, a two-time medallist in 2023, will participate in the shot put and discus throw, having established national junior records in both disciplines.
The senior girls’ team is anticipated to feature USA-based Naomi London and Naya Jules, along with long jump qualifier Syesha Rogers of Morne Stars. London is recognized for her notable achievements as a double sprint medallist from two years ago. Jules, a two-time CARIFTA champion and the record holder for the women’s pole vault, is expected to pursue her third consecutive gold in this event.
Following the weekend’s competitions, the Saint Lucia Athletics Association (SLAA) expressed its support for the athletes, stating, “The SLAA commended all competitors for their dedication and passion, reaffirming its commitment to developing young athletes.” The upcoming CARIFTA Games, scheduled for Easter weekend in Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago, is a significant opportunity for the team, with local runners set to compete in the Island Champs qualifiers this week.
The recent achievements of Saint Lucia’s athletes during the National Junior Track and Field Championships are commendable as they prepare for the CARIFTA Games. With multiple qualifiers securing their spots in various events, the potential for success on the regional stage appears promising. The SLAA’s commitment to supporting young talent underlines the importance of nurturing sporting excellence in the nation, ultimately enhancing the prospects for future championships.
Original Source: stluciatimes.com
