Team BVI returns to heroes’ welcome!
Some wore medals, some wore smiles, some looked tired and some overawed at the size of the crowd to meet them, but all of them proudly sported the BVI badge as the highly successful athletes, who represented the BVI at the Games and who had brought back 5 medals between them, were swamped by family, friends, well-wishers, the Minister responsible for Sports, Myron Walwyn and the Ag. Director of Youth Affairs and Sports, Patrick Harrigan.
Screams of joy and excitement permeated the dock even before the Team had disembarked from the Ferry and the noise just grew louder and louder as the team emerged from the arrival’s area.
First out was Nelda Huggins who was so cruelly denied a hat trick of medals. She was soon followed by fellow medalists, the Gumbs sisters and Lakeisha Warner. Tarika Moses, brother Tarique and Taylor Hill all seemed to have lost their voices after a long flight and the energy expanded at the Games. Niayla Smith, Jamaal Alexander and Shacoy Stephens were soon surrounded by a swarm of friends. The coaches, too, were met with vociferous applause and the entire scene developed into one massive scene of National Pride.
“It was a long trip home,” commented Nelda Huggins, “and I’m tired!”
Tynelle Gumbs was glad to be back in the warmth and admitted she was very pleased to have won a medal at the games. “It was so exciting, I thank everyone for supporting me and I’m glad I did the VI proud.”
Trevia Gumbs, who was tipped to win a medal and proved the pundits right, stated, “I feel good; I did my best, made the BVI Proud and came back with a silver medal.”
Taylor Hill, part of the 4 x 100 bronze medal winning relay team confessed to being motivated by running in front of the large crowds. “I like to run in front of crowds, it was very exciting and fun and I hope to do more next time.”
Jamaal Alexander was a little more philosophical and felt he ran well but just had a couple of off days. “I did my best, I left everything on the track, but things just didn’t work out. It was my first major meet of the year and I will be ready for what’s coming up.”
The rest of the team arrived home later in the evening via the Terrence B. Lettsome Airport, but the entire Team will be together again today, Wednesday April 11 during a Recognition Ceremony hosted by the Government at the Breezeway from 4.30 p.m.
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