Saint Lucia is excited to host the 2026 CBN/WINLOTT Windward Islands School Games from July 24 to August 2.
Today (Saturday), the event kicks off with field events taking place at the Mindoo Phillip Park, starting at 10:00 a.m. Following the field events, athletes and their contingents will gather at the Soufriere Mini Stadium for the opening ceremony, with the track events scheduled to commence at 3:00 p.m.
The Ministry of Youth Development and Sports has been diligently preparing for this major event, which will feature competition among teams in various disciplines, including athletics, basketball (both male and female), football, netball, and volleyball (both male and female).
According to a Ministry of Sports release, a total of sixty-two athletes, along with officials from the four participating Windward Islands—Dominica, Grenada, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and hosts Saint Lucia—will converge for this long-standing sporting tradition.
Established in the early 1900s, the Windward Islands School Games are recognized as some of the oldest school games in the world, proudly sponsored by the Canadian Bank Note and Windward Islands Lotteries.
As preparations continue across various sporting disciplines, the Saint Lucian student-athletes are gearing up for a competitive challenge.
Following a strong performance in the 2025 Games, where Saint Lucia finished third overall, there is heightened anticipation for this year’s competition. Highlights from last year included silver medals in male basketball, male volleyball, and track and field events, as well as bronze in female volleyball and female basketball, and favourable performances in football and netball.
With excitement building and preparations in full swing, the 2026 Windward Islands School Games promise to uphold a tradition of spirited competition and foster regional camaraderie.
Accommodation for all participating teams will be arranged through the Bay Gardens chain of hotels, which includes Bay Gardens Inn, Bay Gardens Hotel, and Bay Gardens Haven. The Bay Gardens Hotel will act as the main hub for the Games Village, serving as the central point for athletes, officials, and delegations to gather for official events.
Eligibility to participate is limited to full-time students aged 20 and under, enrolled in secondary or post-secondary institutions on their respective islands.
Delegations were due to arrive on July 24 and depart on August 2, as Saint Lucia prepares to host hundreds of athletes and officials for a lively celebration of youth, sportsmanship, and regional unity.
An official statement read: “The countdown is on! Saint Lucia is ready to host the CBN/WINLOTT Windward Islands School Games 2026 from July 24 to August 2. Four nations. One stage. One dream. Get ready for intense competition, school pride, regional unity, and the future stars of sport battling for glory right here in Saint Lucia. Windward Islands School Games 2026 — Four Teams… One Dream.”