BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – After weeks of uncertainty over whether renovations at the Kim Collins Athletics Stadium would be completed in time, St. Kitts-Nevis Athletics has officially postponed the upcoming scholastic championships.
With ongoing renovations and concerns about potential weather disruptions, officials relayed the final decision yesterday (Mar. 18) to the media.
“The St. Kitts & Nevis Athletics Association (SKN Athletics) regrets to announce that the highly anticipated Rams Inter-Primary School Championship and the TDC Interschool Championships have been postponed until further notice,” the organization stated in a media release.
The decision followed consultations with key stakeholders, including the Ministries of Education and Sports in both St. Kitts and Nevis, as well as principals and athletic coordinators from primary and secondary schools across the federation.
SKN Athletics noted that despite extensive efforts to finalize a feasible date and secure a suitable venue, critical logistical challenges remain unresolved.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to providing young athletes with “a fair and competitive platform to showcase their talents.”
“We understand the significance of these even in fostering national pride, athletic development, and school spirit. As such, we continue to work diligently with all relevant parties to confirm a new date and venue that will uphold the integrity and high standards of these championships,” the statement continued.
Since the government began upgrading the Bird Rock-based track and field facility, concerns have grown over the length of time required to complete the track. Despite assurances from both the Minister and Permanent Secretary that they hoped for its completion in time for the primary and high school championships, the project is unlikely to meet that timeframe.
However, Minister of Sports Samal Duggins recently attributed the delay to inclement weather.
“The redevelopment of the Kim Collins Stadium is progressing well, in spite of delays caused by persistent rainfall in recent months. While the weather has been beneficial for agriculture, it has impacted construction timelines,” he wrote on his social media page.
