Sports National Walkin says CARIFTA medals “mean everything” Leads TCI’s charge in the Bahamas

Antwon Walkin battled through injuries and self-doubt this season and although he recently broke the national discus record, he credited last weekend’s CARIFTA Games performance as the high point of his young career.

“It means everything. Getting to represent my country on a huge stage and to bring home medals mean the world—it’s worth every session.”

The 17-year-old led TCI’s charge with two of the three medals at the Games. He won a bronze each in discus and shot put.

In the discus, his best throw of 50.24m earned him a podium finish, just short of his national record of 50.74m, which he achieved at ISSA/Grace Kennedy Boys and Girls Champs

Walkin’s other medal came in the shot put, when he threw it a distance of 15.24m, a new personal best. His previous U20 best was 15.17m.

Darvioun Rigby placed 5th with a distance of 15.01m in the shot put final.

TCI’s other medal came via the running prowess of debutant Love Joseph, who powered his way to third place in the U17, 3000M finals.

In a post-race comment, he thanked his coaches, his parents and friends and the support from the TCI.

Overall, the young team did relatively well with a number of personal best performances and several credible finishes.

In the stands, TCI was also well represented, since scores of persons had travelled to Nassau for the event.

President of the TCAAA Edith Skippings said she was happy with the overall performance, especially since a few athletes missed the trip due to injuries.

She said that the TCI possesses the needed talent, but that the talent must be nurtured.

“We know we have the talent. We just have to mature it and help our athletes do the best they can to reach their potential goals.”

Jamaica finished as the 2023 champions, having won the title for the 37th consecutive time, after winning 40 gold medals, 22 silver and 16 bronze.

Home team the Bahamas, finished second with 10 gold, 13 silver and 23 bronze, while Trinidad and Tobago finished third with nine gold, 10 silver and 12 bronze.

Haiti brought up the rear with two bronze medals.