Sports Minister Lovitta Foggo announced today that the 49th Annual CARIFTA Games, due to be held in Bermuda next month, has been postponed as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
The Minister made the announcement at a news conference this morning (March 13) with Donna Raynor, the Chairperson of CARIFTA 2020 and President of the Bermuda National Athletics Association.
The games were to be held next month from April 10 – 13.
While noting that the Government was “disappointed at these developments and the postponement of the Carifta Games”, Ms Foggo said: “But we certainly understand.
“These are unprecedented times and the health, safety and wellbeing of all our young people in all of our regions is our first priority.
“While putting on an event like CARIFTA is not new for us, as we have hosted it several #mes previously, the Covid 19/Corona virus and the health risks it represents is an extraordinary situa#on which is challenging even the greatest of nations.
“So, we are exercising our extreme cau#on by adhering to the guidelines of the global and local health experts and professionals.
“And as Minister, I stand here in support of Donna Raynor, the Chairperson of CARIFTA 2020 and President of the Bermuda National Athletics Association, all of our athletes, coaches and parents.”
Last year, “Bermudian athletes represented the island with pride and courage in Cayman Islands”, she added.
“They delivered some outstanding performances, winning numerous gold, silver and bronze medals. It was a wonderful moment for me as Sports Minister and for Bermuda overall.
“And when the 2020 Games are rescheduled… we look forward to cheering them on again.”
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