CARIFTA Games: Dominica’s Journey

The CARIFTA Games have long been a cornerstone of Caribbean youth athletics, and Dominica’s participation in this prestigious competition reflects both national pride and the steady development of athletic excellence on the island. Since the inception of the Games in 1972, Dominica has been among the countries using this platform to identify, nurture, and celebrate its young sports talents.

History of the CARIFTA Games

Austin Sealy of Barbados founded the CARIFTA Games to foster regional unity and athletic progress following the collapse of the West Indies Federation. The Games are held annually over the Easter weekend and feature athletes in Under-17 and Under-20 categories competing in a range of events including sprints, hurdles, jumps, throws, and relays. Many global athletic icons began their careers at CARIFTA, giving the event high prestige and visibility across the Caribbean.

1980s: Early Participation

Although specific records from the 1980s are limited, Dominica’s participation in the CARIFTA Games during that decade laid the foundation for future successes. The nation’s athletes began gaining valuable experience on the regional stage, setting the stage for more prominent performances in subsequent years.

1990s: Building Momentum

In the 1990s, Dominica continued to make strides in athletics. Although detailed records of individual performances are scarce, the consistent participation of Dominican athletes in various events contributed to the nation’s growing presence in the CARIFTA Games. This period was crucial for the development of sports infrastructure and the nurturing of young talent in Dominica.

2000s: Emerging Talents

The early 2000s saw the emergence of promising athletes from Dominica. In 2004, Sabina Christmas set a national record in the Under-20 Girls’ Javelin Throw with a distance of 43.42 meters at the CARIFTA Games in Bermuda. This performance highlighted Dominica’s potential in field events on the regional stage.

The 2008 CARIFTA Games witnessed Dillon Simon establishing a new Under-17 Boys’ Shot Put record with a throw of 16.63 meters, showcasing Dominica’s strength in throwing events.

2010s: Achieving Gold

In 2012, Luan Gabriel made history by securing Dominica’s first-ever track gold medal at the CARIFTA Games, winning the Under-17 Girls’ 200 meters in Bermuda. The following year, Shanee Angol, a student from Pierre Charles Secondary School, captured another gold medal for Dominica at the 42nd Junior CARIFTA Games held in the Bahamas.

2020s: Continued Success

The 2022 CARIFTA Games were particularly successful for Dominica. Treneese Hamilton clinched gold in the Under-20 Girls’ Shot Put, while Addison James earned silver in the Under-17 Boys’ Javelin Throw. These performances underscored the country’s continued excellence in field events.

In 2024, Addison James continued his impressive trajectory by securing a bronze medal in the Under-20 Boys’ Javelin Throw at the CARIFTA Games in Grenada.

The 2025 CARIFTA Games in Trinidad and Tobago marked a historic moment for Dominica. Addison James achieved a personal best of 67.48 meters to win gold in the Under-20 Boys’ Javelin Throw, setting a new national record. Additionally, Jeriah Lewis delivered an outstanding performance in the Under-20 Boys’ Long Jump, achieving a personal best of 7.06 meters and finishing fifth overall. Dominica’s 4x400m mixed relay team also set a new national record at the 2025 Games, demonstrating the country’s growing prowess in relay events.

Looking Ahead

These achievements have significantly contributed to the development of athletics in Dominica. They have inspired a new generation of athletes and have highlighted the importance of investing in sports infrastructure and training programs. With continued support and development, Dominica is poised to achieve even greater success in future CARIFTA Games and other international competitions.

Dominica’s Ongoing Involvement

Dominica has consistently sent athletes to the Games, building a strong tradition of representation and success. Though a smaller nation, Dominica has earned regional respect through the discipline and resilience of its competitors. Over the years, the island has produced medal-winning athletes in events such as shot put, javelin, long jump, and middle-distance races, among others. Participation is also vital for athlete exposure, encouraging them to aspire to higher levels of competition, such as the Commonwealth Games, Pan American Games, and the Olympics.

The Future of Athletics in Dominica

Participation in the CARIFTA Games plays a crucial role in the country’s athletic development strategy. It offers exposure to high-level competition and provides young athletes with a platform to refine their skills and gain confidence. With increased investment in youth programs, better training facilities, and mentorship from past athletes, Dominica’s medal tally is expected to rise in future Games.

As the CARIFTA Games continue to evolve, Dominica remains committed to fostering talent and maintaining its presence as a strong competitor. These annual Games not only celebrate youth achievement but also inspire national unity and pride in sport.