The Stade Georges-Gratiant in Le Lamentin, Martinique, hosted the official opening ceremony of the 2026 CARIFTA Aquatics Championships yesterday, marking the start of the 39th edition of this premier regional competition. The event brings together more than 500 swimmers from 24 Caribbean territories in a celebration of youth talent and aquatic excellence.
Martinique hosts the championships for the second time in the past decade, following its successful staging in 2016. Over six days of competition, the region’s top young athletes will compete across swimming, artistic swimming, and open water disciplines.
“It is with great pride that Martinique welcomes the CARIFTA Aquatics Championships 2026,” said Alex Badian, President of the Martinique Swimming League, during the opening ceremony.
“Sport is an investment in the future. It shapes individuals, brings people together, and opens opportunities for our youth,” added David Dinal, elected member of the Assembly of Martinique.
For the St. Kitts and Nevis Aquatics Federation (SKNAF), this year’s championships represent both continued progress and a historic milestone. This marks the federation’s third appearance at CARIFTA in swimming and its first-ever participation in the open water competition, signaling an important step in the development of aquatic sports in the Federation.
SKNAF is represented by swimmer Skyla Connor, who will compete in several events throughout the championship, and open water athlete Austin Williams, making his debut in the open water event.
The team is supported by Coach James Weekes, SKNAF President Eldon Thomas, and chaperone Danielle Connor, all working together to ensure a strong and supportive environment for the athletes.
The swimming competition runs over four days, April 4-7, with morning heats beginning at 9:00 AM and evening finals scheduled for 6:00 PM. The Open Water event will be held on April 8, starting at 9:00 AM.
The CARIFTA Aquatics Championships provide a valuable platform for young athletes to gain international experience, test their abilities against the region’s best, and continue their development at the highest level of junior competition.
The St. Kitts and Nevis Aquatics Federation encourages the public to follow and support Team SKN as they represent the Federation with pride on the regional stage.