Ereia Smith Makes History as Virgin Islands'
Ereia Smith has made history as the first track and field official from the Virgin Islands to earn the Technical Manager designation under NACAC and World Athletics standards. BVIAA President Steve Augustine commended the milestone, emphasizing that her qualification significantly strengthens the Territory's capacity to host and manage world-class competitions.
British Virgin Islands track and field official Ereia Smith has made history by becoming the Territory's first official to earn the prestigious Technical Manager designation under the standards of the North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletic Association (NACAC) and World Athletics.
According to the BVI Athletics Association (BVIAA), Smith was among 28 officials from across the NACAC region to successfully complete the intensive certification programme. The credential formally qualifies her to inspect competition facilities, manage and examine competition implements and equipment, and oversee athletics events at both regional and international levels under World Athletics competition rules.
BVIAA President Steve Augustine described Smith's accomplishment as a major step forward for local sports administration. He noted that having the Territory's first NACAC-certified Technical Manager strengthens the Virgin Islands' ability to deliver world-class competitions and directly supports the continuous development of the sport.
The NACAC Technical Managers Certification Course brought together sports officials from across North America, Central America, and the Caribbean to provide specialized instruction in technical meet administration. Operating under World Athletics' Technical Officials Education and Certification System, the programme is designed to elevate global officiating standards and ensure competitions maintain strict sporting integrity and efficiency.
Smith has steadily built her career in track and field governance, gaining valuable hands-on experience officiating at premier regional competitions, including the CARIFTA Games. The annual junior championship serves as a key testing ground for both rising Caribbean athletes and technical officials seeking international exposure.
Her historic credential comes as the Virgin Islands continues to expand its footprint in international athletics. By developing certified technical officials alongside elite athletes and coaches, the Territory ensures it remains well-equipped to support competitive sporting events and represent the BVI at the highest levels of regional and global sports governance.
Primary source: Guavaberry