The Antigua and Barbuda Athletic Association (ABAA) took its Grassroot Development and Talent Identification Programme to Barbuda on the weekend, putting on the third instalment of the initiative on the sister isle on Sunday.
The event, which aims to identify and harness new talents into the sport, saw a number of young athletes tested in speed and endurance. As the athletes were put through their paces, coaches and officials who travelled to Barbuda observed the amount of raw talent and untapped potential the athletes possess as the were at time, on par and even outclassed some of the well-trained athletes who would have journeyed over.
“The ABAA is working to have a stronger, coordinated relationship to develop athletics in Barbuda, as we aim to always have Barbudan athletes being apart of any national team,” said a release from the association.
A total number of 77 athletes took part in the initiative — 52 from Barbuda and 25 from Antigua.
“The ABAA would like to say a special thank you to Athletics Cordinator in Barbuda, Peter Cuffy, for coming onboard with this initiative and welcoming us over for the day to make this event a success. Thanks to executive members of the ABAA — 2nd VP Shawnor Charles-Joseph, Treasurer Patricia Salmon, Coaches Oswald Baptist, Jamille Nelson, Kesswin Anthony, Timon Emmanuel and Volunteer Winston Benjamin — who all made the trip over to ensure a successful event. Thanks to the parents of the athletes who made the journey over and assisted in various areas and offered support and encouragement to the athletes,” the association conveyed in a statement.
The event was held at Sir McChesney George Secondary School. The 4th grassroot initiative will be continue in Willikies on February 9, 2025.
