Guyana begins preparations to host 2027 Carifta Games for the first time

GEORGETOWN, Guyana. Guyana has formally begun preparations to host the Carifta Games for the first time, in 2027.

The regional junior track and field championships will take place from March 27 to 29, 2027, at the National Track and Field Centre in Leonora.

A delegation from the North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletic Association (NACAC) has arrived in Guyana to begin initial assessments and preparations.

Inspection at Leonora

NACAC officials, led by president Michael Sands and Technology Commission chair John-Paul Clarke, inspected the Leonora facility to assess its suitability for the championships.

The inspection brought together government and athletics officials to review existing infrastructure and draw up plans for the event.

Talks focused on facility upgrades, technical operations, security, hosting capacity and overall readiness for the three-day meeting.

"This represents a monumental occasion for Guyanese sport," the delegation said during the visit.

A first for Guyana

Guyana has taken part in the Carifta Games for decades and produced successful athletes, but has never hosted the event.

First held in Barbados in 1972, the Games have become the Caribbean's premier junior athletics competition and an important platform for young athletes who go on to succeed internationally.

The 2027 edition is an opportunity for Guyana to establish itself as a host of major regional sporting events and to showcase its athletics facilities and hospitality.

With preparations under way, the country's focus is now on delivering a successful championship for the region's top junior athletes.