Gold, Silver and Bronze

Last year, I was very critical of our participation and performance in CARIFTA. This year, there is a renewed sense of pride and reminder of what can be achieved when young talent is nurtured and given the opportunity to compete on the regional stage. With that said, I want to publicly congratulate David Hall, Herwens Guerrier, and Luc Durliat for their performance at CARIFTA 2026.

David Hall’s gold medal and Herwens Guerrier’s silver medal in athletics have already captured our attention, but equal recognition must also be given to swimmer Luc Durliat, who earned a bronze medal in the boys’ 11–12 200m butterfly at the CARIFTA Aquatics Championships. Together, these achievements represent a significant moment for Turks and Caicos, with success coming in more than one discipline and across different age groups

For a country where every regional medal carries deep significance, this year’s results stand out. While we celebrated a bronze medal in 2024, when Antwon Walkin secured bronze in the Under-20 Boys Discus Throw, the 2026 performances are particularly meaningful because they have produced multiple medals, including gold, and have once again placed the national flag prominently among Caribbean competitors.

These accomplishments deserve recognition not only because of the podium finishes themselves, but because of what they represent: discipline, perseverance, and the quiet determination of young athletes who continue to excel despite the limitations often faced here in TCI.

CARIFTA has long been one of the Caribbean’s most respected proving grounds for emerging talent. Many of the region’s greatest athletes first announced themselves there, and this year Turks and Caicos has shown that its young athletes remain fully capable of competing with distinction against larger and more established sporting nations.

Perhaps most importantly, sports once again demonstrate its unique ability to unite people.  In moments like these, communities celebrate together, national pride rises naturally, and the accomplishments of individual athletes become a shared victory for an entire country.

The achievements of David Hall, Herwens Guerrier, and Luc Durliat should also strengthen the case for continued investment in athletics, swimming, coaching, and youth development. Talent is clearly present. The challenge now is ensuring that support systems continue to grow with that talent.

We celebrate three young athletes whose achievements have honoured Turks and Caicos and shown that sporting success can inspire a nation.  

Finally, I would like to congratulate the other athletes, coaches, parents and other stakeholders involved in CARIFTA 2026. This is proud moment for all of us.

Photo courtesy of Turks and Caicos Islands Sports Commission