As 35 delegations prepared to depart Antigua and Barbuda for the 2024 NACAC Under-18 and Under-23 Athletics Championships in Mexico’s Apizaco, the nation’s top sports official has urged the young athletes to carry national pride onto the international track and field stage.
Minister of Sports and Creative Industries Dwayne George delivered parting remarks to the full contingent at V.C. Bird International Airport on Wednesday, ahead of the three-day competition kicking off July 10. The island nation will field competitive entries in both age-based divisions, pitting its up-and-coming track and field talent against hundreds of top youth athletes from across the North America, Central America and Caribbean region.
In his address, George emphasized that the honor of representing Antigua and Barbuda extends far beyond individual athletic ambition. Beyond their own personal goals, he told competitors, they carry the support and expectations of their families, coaches, training staff and the entire national population that has cheered them on through months of preparation.
The minister made clear that while the team arrives in Mexico focused on securing top finishes and medals, the nation’s support for the young athletes does not depend on competition results. “We’re going out to win, but win, lose or draw, we still love you and we’re still here to support you wholeheartedly,” George told the assembled delegation.
He closed by urging every athlete to push to their absolute maximum potential over the course of the championships, while wearing the national flag with honor and reflecting on the countless sacrifices that coaches, family members and community supporters made to help them reach this international qualifying position.
“You are doing a good work for Antigua and Barbuda. We love you and we cheer you on,” George added, as the team prepared to board their outbound flights for the high-profile regional youth athletics event.