Preparations for the 2027 CARIFTA Games have gathered pace in Guyana following the official establishment of the event’s Local Organising Committee (LOC).
The South American nation will host the Caribbean’s marquee junior athletics competition for the first time, welcoming around 1,100 athletes, coaches, and officials for the 54th edition of the regional showcase over the Easter weekend – March 27-29, 2027.
Guyana secured the hosting rights after stepping in following a historic agreement between the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) and regional governing body NACAC.
The move was backed by swift intervention from CARICOM Heads of Government and Guyanese President Dr Irfaan Ali after initial prospective hosts were unable to proceed.
The newly formed LOC will be spearheaded by Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson Jr., alongside Minister Steven Jacobs, Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle, and AAG President Amanda Hermonstine.
Bringing together key public and private stakeholders—including the Guyana Police Force, Guyana Defence Force, Ministry of Health, and the Civil Defence Commission—the committee has been tasked with overseeing the extensive multi-agency effort required for the Games.
A central CARIFTA Games Secretariat is also being set up at the National Racquet Centre to manage daily operations, including logistics, accommodation, transport, venue coordination, and communications.
Work is already advancing on the main competition facilities, track, and supporting infrastructure as the host nation ramps up readiness to welcome athletes and supporters from across the Caribbean.
Inaugurated in Barbados in 1972 by Austin Sealy to mark the historical transition from the Caribbean Free Trade Association (CARIFTA) to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the annual competition has grown into the Caribbean’s ultimate proving ground for junior athletic talent.
Featuring Under-17 and Under-20 divisions, the games encompass sprints, hurdles, distance events, jumps, throws, and relays, bringing together the top young athletes from across member territories
Source: NEW ROOMS SITE
