Eight young athletes aged 12 and over from the Black and Gold Track Club recently returned from a successful developmental trip to St. Kitts and Nevis, where they participated in the SPIRE Camps: Island Elite Sports Foundation & Achievers Sports Club Clinic 2026, held from 1st –3rd July 2026 at the Kim Collins Athletic Stadium.
Representing the club were Camia Gumbs, Cynné Liburd, Keandré Mills, Ca’Miyah Hughes, Tzion Carty, Michael Skellekie, Reynah Lico, and Shaynae Duncan. The delegation was led by Head Coach Winston Duncan and supported by a committed group of parents, whose encouragement and assistance contributed greatly to the success of the trip.
The three-day SPIRE Camps programme brought together athletes and coaches from across the Caribbean and internationally for an intensive programme focused on athletic development, technical excellence, sports science, injury prevention, performance enhancement, and mentorship. Participants also benefited from instruction by internationally accomplished coaches and former Olympians, including Kerron Stewart – 2012 Olympic Silver Medallist, Tim Mack – 2004 Olympic Gold Medallist, and Ms Olivia Jones – Jumps Coach, providing exposure to modern training techniques and internationally recognised best practices.
In addition to the practical training sessions, athletes and coaches were introduced to the programmes and opportunities available through SPIRE Academy, including its world-class training environment, academic offerings, collegiate pathways, and athlete support services. The clinic also featured discussions on collegiate athletics, exposing participants to the academic and athletic opportunities available to student-athletes and the steps required to pursue higher education through sport.
Head Coach Winston Duncan described the experience as an important investment in the athletes’ future.
“Development opportunities such as the SPIRE Clinic are invaluable. Our athletes were challenged both physically and mentally while learning from experienced coaches and interacting with athletes from across the region. They returned home with greater confidence, new skills, and renewed motivation to continue striving for excellence.”
Black and Gold Track Club extends sincere appreciation to the parents who travelled with the delegation and to everyone who supported the initiative. The club also thanks its sponsors, donors, and the wider Anguillian community, whose continued generosity and encouragement make these developmental opportunities possible.
Participation in the SPIRE Camps programme forms part of the club’s ongoing commitment to providing quality coaching, regional exposure, and opportunities for young athletes to develop their talents while proudly representing Anguilla.
The club now turns its attention to the upcoming Nevis Culturama Games, scheduled for 26th July 2026, where the Black and Gold Track Club will once again be represented by a delegation of athletes competing against some of the region’s best. The experience gained through initiatives such as the SPIRE Camps continues to strengthen the club’s overall athlete development programme and reflects its commitment to preparing young athletes for regional and international competition.
As preparations continue for the upcoming athletics season, Black and Gold Track Club remains dedicated to developing disciplined, confident, and competitive athletes while creating opportunities that inspire the next generation to achieve their full potential.
