Largest BVI Delegation Qualifies for World Athletics
A record-breaking six athletes from the British Virgin Islands have qualified for the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, marking the territory's largest delegation in the event's history. Kyron McMaster, Chantel Malone, Rikkoi Brathwaite, Beyoncé Defreitas, Jaleel Croal, and Djimon Gumbs secured their spots through the World Athletics ranking system, poised to compete on the global stage from September 13-21.
In an unprecedented milestone for the British Virgin Islands, six of the territory's top athletes have qualified for the prestigious 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, representing the largest group in the BVI's history to compete at this level. Through the World Athletics ranking system, which allocates entry based on points gathered at international meets, Kyron McMaster, Chantel Malone, Rikkoi Brathwaite, Beyoncé Defreitas, Jaleel Croal, and Djimon Gumbs have earned their places among the world’s elite athletes.
The BVI Athletics Association announced the qualification of McMaster, Malone, Brathwaite, and Croal on August 27, with Gumbs and Defreitas joining the roster shortly after as 'next best' athletes, rounding out the six-member team. This achievement not only highlights the athletes' exceptional talent and hard work but also places the BVI firmly on the global athletic map.
Each athlete enters the competition with impressive World Athletics rankings in their respective events. McMaster, for instance, is ranked 11th in the 400 meters, a testament to his prowess on the track. Similarly, Malone's rank of 32nd in the long jump and Brathwaite's 48th in the 100 meters underscore the competitive edge BVI athletes bring to the championships.
The team, accompanied by coach Ralston Henry, BVIAA President Steve Augustine, General Secretary Stephanie Russ Penn, and physiotherapist Colin Turner, arrived in Tokyo earlier this month, gearing up for the competition that kicks off on September 13. The championships promise exciting performances, with Brathwaite and Gumbs opening the event for Team BVI in the 100 meters and shot put, respectively.
BVI residents and fans worldwide can follow the athletes' journey and cheer them on through broadcasts on SportsMax, NBC Sports, Peacock, and worldathletics.org. This historic participation not only showcases the athletes' dedication and the association's support but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes in the territory, proving that with hard work and determination, representing the BVI on the world stage is within reach.
Primary source: JTV