BVI Athletics Association (BVIAA) will receive an additional $100,000 from the government of the Virgin Islands (VI) to support its participation in the 2026 Carifta Games and other sporting activities throughout the year, according to Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, Hon Sharie B. de Castro (AL). Photo: BVIAA

The 2026 Virgin Islands Carifta Team was officially announced during a press conference on March 26, 2026. Photo: BVIAA

The 2026 Virgin Islands Carifta Team was officially announced during a press conference on March 26, 2026, where Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, Hon Sharie B. de Castro (AL), said the ministry sought to ensure a mechanism for annual support to sporting associations and federations was created. 

“Athletics is the largest grassroots sports movement in the Territory.”

The BVIAA, she said, has benefited from this initiative over the last three years, totalling $250,000 in funding from the government of the Virgin Islands. 

“This year will be no different; you will be receiving an additional $100,000  in support of Carifta and all other initiatives on the calendar for this year.”

This contribution, Hon de Castro added, should be a sign that the government is extremely supportive of the development of all sports.

2026 Carifta Team told to carry VI’s flag with pride

The VI’s team for Carifta 2026 includes 27 athletes who will compete in various track and field events during Carifta 53 in Grenada.

The games will take place at the Kirani James Stadium in St George’s, Grenada, from April 4 to 6, 2026, under the theme ‘Passion Drives Performance’. 

Hon de Castro told the athletes it is an honour and a privilege to carry the flag of the VI on their chests. 

“I want you to never underestimate the weight of carrying that flag, it is a privilege and an honour that some persons would never get to experience. I don’t want you to take it for granted. I want you to carry that flag with pride, and I want you to leave it all on the track and the field.”