The road to the 2026 Carifta Games gathered significant pace at the Flora Duffy South Field Stadium as more Bermudian athletes booked their tickets for the regional showpiece. During a high-stakes trials meet hosted by the Bermuda National Athletics Association, the National Sports Center became the backdrop for both celebration and the narrowest of frustrations as the qualifying window continues to draw to a close.
The endurance events provided the evening's most emphatic statements of intent. Sanchez Smith delivered a masterclass in pacing during the Under-17 Boys 3000m, leaving the competition in his wake as he crossed the line in a blistering 9:38.00. His performance was more than just a victory; it was a demolition of the qualifying barrier, as he surpassed the required standard by a massive 20 seconds.
Following suit in the Under-20 division, GianLuca Bortoli showcased his elite conditioning in the 5000m. Bortoli maintained a relentless rhythm throughout the twelve-and-a-half laps to stop the clock at 15:59.00. With the Carifta standard set at 16:40.00, his performance ensures he will be a key figure for the national team when they head to Grenada this April.
In the sprint lanes, Amara Samuels continued her sensational start to the season. Having already secured her spot in the Under-17 Girls 100m on Saturday, Samuels returned to the track with the aim of doubling her workload for the Games.
In a race decided by the finest of margins, she powered around the bend and maintained her form through the home straight to clock 25.20. It was a heart-pounding finish that saw her dip just five-hundredths of a second under the 25.25 qualifying mark, sparking celebrations as she confirmed her status as a dual-threat sprinter for the upcoming regional championships.
While two athletes celebrated, the meet also highlighted the unforgiving nature of international qualifying standards. Surii Russell produced a valiant effort in the Under 17 Men's 800 Meter Run, clocking a time of 2:02.67. Despite the strong finish, he ended the day just over two seconds adrift of the elusive 2:00.00 mark.
The margins were even tighter in the Under 20 Women's 200 Meter Dash. Lashee Jones powered around the bend and into the home straight, eventually stopping the clock at 26.68. It was a spirited run from Jones, who will undoubtedly look to find the extra gear needed to bridge the gap to the 24.68 standard in the final remaining trials of the season.
Click Here to see the Full February 04th, 2026 - BNAA Third Meet Results
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