AAG in doubt over Carifta Games team participation

The Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) is uncertain whether they will be able to send their selected eight-member team to the 40th edition of the Carifta Games to be held in Jamaica from April 23-25.

AAG president Colin Boyce yesterday made that disclosure to Stabroek Sport.

Colin Boyce

“Well we are getting there slowly but by Friday we will be able to say if we can send the whole team. There is a council meeting tomorrow (today) to look at the possibilities,” Boyce stated.

The team should be spearheaded by Carifta defending 1500 metres champion, Jevina Straker and sprint ace, Chavez Ageday and will also include 400 metres under-20 champion, Stephon James, under-20 champion in the 800 and 1500 metres, Trevon George, distance king, Nathaniel Giddings and 400 metres specialist Melissa Byass along with Pamela Phillips and Julian Edmonds as the team officials.

Meanwhile some of the team’s athletes told Stabroek Sport that preparations for the Carifta Games have intensified.

“It’s nice but tough right now, me and my coach are focusing on speed because I have a lot of strength and endurance,” James stated.

Jevina Starker

George also weighed in on his preparations for the major event. “It’s coming along reasonable, training has been intensified a little bit more but it’s good and I feel confident of my chances at the games,” he stated.

Ageday told this newspaper:”Well it’s coming along ok, a little stiff but its good right now and right now we’re focusing on speed and strength.”

Chavez Ageday

Straker’s coach Leslie Blacks told Stabroek Sport:”Well, we normally train in the morning alone but now we have stepped it up to morning and afternoon sessions so we can get the bulk of the work done now because the games is about two weeks away, so next week time will be lighter for her focusing mainly on speed,” he commented.

Meanwhile the under-23 games will be hosted by the AAG on Sunday at the Police Sports Club Ground, Eve Leary.