Barbados is set to make history this summer by hosting its first-ever professional track and field event—the Barbados Grand Prix—on July 5 at the renowned Usain Bolt Sports Complex in Bridgetown. This World Athletics-sanctioned meet aims to spotlight the island’s top athletic talent and invigorate the local sports scene.
A Vision Realized
The brainchild of CARIFTA bronze medalist and former Harrison College standout, Aren Spencer, the Barbados Grand Prix is designed to provide a competitive platform for both emerging and established athletes. Spencer’s initiative reflects a commitment to nurturing homegrown talent and elevating Barbados’ presence in the international athletics arena.
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Star-Studded Lineup
The event has already attracted commitments from several of the island’s premier athletes. Olympian Mario Burke, known for his impressive sprinting prowess, leads a roster that includes Julian Forde, Jayden Green, Aragon Straker, Teon Haynes, Amani Mascoll-Beckles, Jaquone Hoyte, Darian Clarke, and Kuron Griffith. These athletes are expected to headline the men’s sprint events, promising thrilling competitions.
On the women’s side, junior world bronze medalist Kishawna Niles, Khristel Martindale, Alika Harewood, and Trinidad and Tobago’s Commonwealth Games gold medalist Michelle-Lee Ahye are slated to compete, adding an international flair to the meet.
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Innovative Competition Format
The Barbados Grand Prix will feature 13 events, including the 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, sprint hurdles, long jump, and shot put for men. A unique aspect of the meet is its format: each athlete is permitted to compete in only one event. This approach encourages strategic planning by coaches and ensures a wide distribution of talent across events.
Andre Procope, Chairman of the organizing committee, elaborated on the format: “Each athlete is only allowed to compete in one event, so that opens it up quite a bit. The coaches will have to draft strategically. That spreads the prize money around as well. Each team will have two managers and coaches assigned to them. It will add to the level of excitement and competition that you will see. We also have two relays scheduled and teams will get points. We plan to put on something very special for everyone in Barbados. We want to make it a real spectacle and something that Bajans will enjoy.”
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A Boost for Barbadian Athletics
The Barbados Grand Prix is more than just a sporting event; it’s a statement of the island’s dedication to athletic excellence. By providing a high-caliber platform for competition, the meet aims to inspire the next generation of athletes and position Barbados as a key player in the Caribbean athletics circuit.
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