THE media launch of the Bank of Saint Lucia (BOSL) National Age Group Championship Games, in collaboration with the Saint Lucia Athletic Association (SLAA), was a watershed moment this week.
The effort demonstrates a strong dedication to young athletes aged 7 to 15, giving them opportunities to improve their skills.
Event MC Elijah Williams emphasised the importance of this relationship, adding that it is founded on trust, perseverance, and growth.
The 20th edition of the National Age Group Championship Games will take place from June 7 to 8, setting the stage for an incredible display of brilliance.
Analicia Edmunds, BOSL Corporate Communications Officer, expressed delight in being the title sponsor of this inaugural event, emphasising the bank’s commitment to promoting the island’s “young sporting talent.” She explained that this sponsorship is an important part of BOSL’s mission for 2025, which is to build strong, resilient communities via youth empowerment and sports development.
“This initiative lays a solid foundation for young athletes to excel,” Edmunds added, recognising the critical role SLAA plays in developing talent, including sprint sensation Julien “Juju” Alfred and others who have gone through the National Youth Championship to greater heights.
BOSL is dedicated to collaborating with the SLAA on additional projects, including public relations training, Kids Athletics Day activities, and safeguarding workshops, to develop the island’s athletic systems.
SLAA President Dora Henry described the project as a celebration of progress and a reaffirmation of the organization’s commitment to training the nation’s young athletes.
The young championship is being revived after a hiatus as athletes strive to achieve new heights.
“The National Age Group Championship is integral to the vision of the Saint Lucia Athletics Association,” she affirmed. “From the outset, this championship has served as a development springboard; it’s a platform to identify and cultivate potential in promising young athletes.”
Henry pointed out that over the years, “It has transformed into a vital launchpad, propelling numerous top-performing athletes who have proudly represented our nation at events like the NACAC Age Group Championship, CARIFTA Games, and even the Olympics.”
This event brings athletes together in an environment that promotes healthy competition, teamwork, resilience, and personal development, she explained. “It is here that the foundational elements for future excellence in athletics are firmly established,” Henry said.
Lyndon Arnold, Deputy Managing Director – Operations, stated that there is evident excitement in Saint Lucia’s athletic landscape. He stated that the collaboration with SLAA is part of a strategic commitment to using sports to promote national development.
“These championships are not simply events; they are platforms designed to identify, nurture, and elevate talent. They inspire the next generation to dream big, pursue excellence, and represent our nation on regional and global stages,” Arnold said.
Kenson Casimir, Minister of Youth Development and Sports, underlined his steadfast commitment to improving athletics. He promised guests, including officials, sponsors, parents, and young athletes, that “the sport of athletics will continue on its upward trajectory.”
He emphasized the government’s commitment to providing standardized equipment and gear to the island’s athletes, and praised the SLAA for creating extraordinary talents such as Julien Alfred, Michael Joseph, Naomi London, and other emerging athletes.
Casimir praised BOSL’s contributions to community sports and social programs and urged SLAA members to persevere, saying, “Continue to soldier on. The path may not be easy, but it is vital.”