BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – WITH the 2025 athletics season underway, local athletes are making an impact both at home and abroad, showcasing their talents on the track and in the field as they prepare for major competitions.
Just over a month into the season, St. Kitts-Nevis Athletics President Delwayne Delaney has described it as “promising,” highlighting early qualifications for the CARIFTA Games in events not traditionally associated with the Federation.
“In some events that we are not usually known for, such as the shot put and javelin, we have already secured qualifications. Yet, we have won medals, especially last year,” Delaney noted.
Speaking with SKNVibes Sports, he recalled that at the 2024 CARIFTA Games, Jaheem Clarke won a silver medal with a throw of 56.09m, while Abijah Namdhari placed fourth with a throw of 54.10m.
“We have also seen overseas athletes performing exceptionally well, achieving qualifying marks well below the required standards. So, they are definitely looking strong for the 2025 CARIFTA Games. Recently, at the Charlestown Secondary Sports Day, Kymarni Newton won the 800 metres with a qualifying time,” Delaney revealed.
With local athletes showing strong early-season form, the president remains optimistic about more qualifications as the season progresses.
“Whether it's during their sports days or upcoming meets like the Jensing Up Classic next weekend, we expect more qualifiers. There are also the CAEIFTA Trials and the TDC Interschool Championships ahead. So, we anticipate additional athletes qualifying for the CARIFTA Games over the Easter weekend,” he said.
Meanwhile, in the senior division, many athletes currently competing at the collegiate level have been delivering commendable performances.
Delaney highlighted Kimarley Newton’s personal best times in the 60 metres and 200 metres, along with strong showings from Buntin and Harris.
“They have been posting impressive opening times, and as we transition from the indoor to the outdoor season, we expect these performances to translate into even better results,” he said.
Looking ahead, the president expressed confidence in the nation's athletes as they prepare for international competitions, including the World Championships.
“So we know later on this year is the World Championships, and we expect qualifiers at that level as well. We also have other junior meets, such as the Pan Am Juniors, which will be beneficial for our young athletes,” he noted.
He emphasized the promising future of athletics in St. Kitts and Nevis, stating, “There is a good crop of athletes coming through, which underscores that the sport remains in good hands to keep the flag of St. Kitts and Nevis flying. We just have to make sure we place them in the best possible position to excel.”
