Construction of the Saint Lucia National Aquatic Centre (NAC) is well underway, with completion targeted for October 2026. This state-of-the-art facility is poised to host the prestigious 2027 CARIFTA Aquatic Championships from March 27-31, marking a significant milestone for the nation’s sporting infrastructure. Minister for Youth Development and Sports, Kenson Casimir, expressed unwavering confidence in the project’s timely delivery and its potential to elevate Saint Lucia’s standing in regional sports. Excavation commenced in April 2024, following the 28th CARIFTA Championships in Trinidad and Tobago. Eddie Hazell, former president of the Saint Lucia Aquatics Federation, emphasized the urgency of completing the facility ahead of the 2027 event. The modular pool, stored since early 2023 by Hazell’s company, West Indies Shipping & Trading, is a key component of the project. The NAC, located in Gros Islet, will complement existing sports facilities, including the Beausejour Gymnasium and the National Tennis Centre, near the iconic Daren Sammy Cricket Ground. Contractor IDC (Caribbean) Holdings Ltd, a renowned engineering firm with expertise in civil engineering, is overseeing the construction. Casimir highlighted the ongoing progress, noting that additional equipment from China is expected to accelerate the pace of work. Once operational, the NAC will be the first Olympic-size swimming venue in the sub-region, providing elite local swimmers with access to a 50m pool without the need to travel abroad. The facility is also anticipated to host the 34th OECS Swimming Championships in 2026. The 2027 CARIFTA Aquatic Championships will bring together over 500 participants, officials, and fans from 24 territories, showcasing Saint Lucia’s growing prominence in aquatic sports.