The path to the Kirani James Athletic Stadium in Grenada has reached its final stretch, with Bermuda’s youth athletes facing a high-stakes "last chance" double-header to secure their spots on the national squad. With the official team selection set for March 15, the 48 hours prior represent the definitive window for those still chasing the elusive qualifying standards.
Two major meets at the Flora Duffy South Field Stadium will provide the final stage for these aspirants. The action begins on Friday, March 13, with the Bermuda School Sports Federation (BSSF) Inter-School Sports Finals, followed immediately by the Bermuda National Athletics Association (BNAA) Final Carifta Trial on Saturday, March 14.
BNAA President Jarita Vickers confirmed that the national team is "shaping up well," with seven athletes having already punched their tickets to the Games. The Under-17 girls' category has emerged as the most prolific division so far, showing significant depth in the early season qualifying meets.
However, the transition to older age brackets has proven to be a hurdle for some of the island's more established names. "Many of the athletes that made last year’s team have now moved up to the Under-20 category, and so it has been more of a challenge for them to reach the standard," Vickers explained. Despite the step up in difficulty, the President noted that several athletes remain "extremely close" to the marks, with consistent improvements recorded week-on-week.
Recent trials have already seen emotional breakthroughs. Elena Bortoli became the latest athlete to confirm her place in the squad, delivering a powerful performance in the Under-17 women's 1500-meter run with a time of 5:00.88—well inside the 5:06.00 requirement.
Others, however, are feeling the pressure of the clock. Brooklyn Myers came agonizingly close in the same event, finishing in 5:06.51—less than a second away from the standard. With the Carifta Games now just four weeks away, athletes like Myers will be looking to bridge those marginal gaps during the Senior Inter-School Sports and the final Saturday trial to ensure they are on the plane to Grenada.
Qualifiers to Date:
Under 17 Girls
Amara Samuels (100m,200m)
Riana Robinson (1500m)
Elena Bortoli (1500m)
Under 17 Boys
Sanchez Smith (3000m)
Under 20 Girls
Tatiana Sousa (Javelin)
Under 20 Boys
Miles Outerbridge (100m/200m)
Gianluca Bortoli (5000m)
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