The XXII Central American and Caribbean Games came to an end in Veracruz, Mexico, with Sailor Ceci Wollmann carrying the Bermuda Flag.
Bermuda’s performance in Mexico, was clearly disappointing and Chef-de-Mission Donna Watson released a statement to the fact.
Watson said, “This has not been the best performance from Bermuda at these games. I thought we could come away with a few Medals especially after we made our stamp at the last Games in 2010 coming away with 6 Medals.”
Watson went on to say, “I will begin with my sport. I was very disappointed with Tyrone Smith's performance. A former Olympian, World Championship competitor and defending Champion I expected him to be on the podium and definitely make the Finals. The 3 Medal performances were not out if his reach. I thought Roy Allan Burch could get us a medal. Ranked 2nd going into the 50m Freestyle Finals I figured he would be on the podium. I believe our 2 young competitors Ceci Wollmann and Cameron Pimentel gave it their best as this is their first experience at the Senior level. 2 of our Cyclist did not finish their event. Our lone equestrian had a few challenges with the horse and this is her first competition. Our team sports were very disappointing.”
Watson continued, “I feel maybe we did not take this event serious, the athletes, the public, the media and the Government. I can assure you that Cuba, Mexico, Venezuela to name a few always take the CAC Games serious and they show you that in every event they enter. Yes the event was held in November, yes the schedule changed at times, yes the weather may have been cold and windy but that was the same situation for every athlete.”
Watson concluded, “I feel if we are going to enter these events we need to be committed and be prepared to compete. This is not our first CAC Games and should know what to expect and these Games are not out if our league and we could be competitive.”