Kingston, 10 November 2021 - The Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the Honourable Olivia Grange, says she is “in full support of Jamaica hosting the 2022 Carifta Games as a part of the country’s Diamond Jubilee Celebrations.”

The Games would take place at the National Stadium between April 16 and 18, 2022.

Minister Grange’s Statement

“When news came that the selected host for 2022 - Guyana, was unable to fulfill the obligation, it was felt that the only country which could step up to the plate at such short notice would be Jamaica. Not just because of the ongoing dominance of our athletes, but because of our experience in staging similar events in spite of the covid-19 pandemic. We are very proud of the successful staging of the ISSA Boys and Girls Championships earlier this year. We have no doubt that we are equal to the task of staging the Carifta Games next year.

I have indicated to the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association and the North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletic Association that I would do my best to assist in making it possible. Carifta is the premier event for junior athletes across the Caricom region with athletes competing in two age-categories: under-17 and under-20.

I must say, however, that although Jamaica is interested in hosting the event, it is subject to several approvals and sign offs as well as the requisite funding.

The Ministry is therefore working very closely with the JAAA and NACAC to satisfy all the requirements in order for me to make an official announcement.

It is in our best interest to do everything to have the Games held here. Among all the other good reasons, our tourism — hotels in Kingston in particular, will definitely benefit.”

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