Last Updated on April 24, 2023, 7:14 AM AST by Anthony Morris
Akanye Samuel-Francis, one of the athletes who travelled to the Bahamas for the 50th Edition of the CARIFTA Games 2023, was the only athlete in the delegation to bring a gold medal in the Men’s Under 17 400m Hurdles event. The athlete finished his hurdle race in 54.14s to bring honour to his country. The authorities of St Kitts and Nevis have taken the opportunity to honour the athlete and sportsman for his contribution to the country’s reputation.
In the CARIFTA Games, the athletes of St Kitts and Nevis represented their nation and performed best in their athletic careers. In recognition, St Kitts and Nevis authorities hosted an honouring ceremony for the gold medal winner, Akanye Samuel-Francis. The event was hosted as a part of the Diplomatic Week Celebration.
The diplomats gathered for the ceremony and watched the Men’s Under 17 400m Hurdles event, which brought St Kitts and Nevis the first and only gold medal of the Track and Field competition. Accordingly, the attendants gave the athlete their best applause and commendations for his achievements. He also interacted with several media members, recounting his accomplishment and feelings after receiving the gold medal.
According to the Account shared by Akanye Samuel-Francis, the athlete was not expecting to win the medal; however, he was working diligently for the same. The athlete shared that he was extremely happy about winning the track and field contest, competing against athletes from several other Caribbean nations.
In last year’s edition of the games, he was placed fifth. Accordingly, clinching the top spot in this year’s contest is a matter of great pride for the athlete. In his words, the athlete confessed that after he finished the race, he could not believe he had won the game. Talking to the media, Akanye Samuel-Francis shared his aspirations for his future in the sports industry.
Francis is a celebrated athlete of track and field, and at the same time, he is an excellent and exceptional footballer. He told the media that he sees and considers himself the ambassador of St Kitts and Nevis in track and field and football. The 15-year-old athlete of St Kitts and Nevis has competed in the CARIFTA games for two consecutive years.
For his victory, the athlete gave credit to the people of the community, who supported him and helped him grow throughout his career. He extended his gratitude to his friends and families. His coach also played a crucial role in the success of the athlete.
The athlete brought St Kitts and Nevis the first gold in five years and the first-ever gold medal in a hurdle event. His victory and success are significant to the country as he was one of the favourites of the SKN Teams and capable of bringing a medal for the team. During the Diplomatic Week, Akanye Samuel-Francis urged the people of St Kitts and Nevis and youngsters to believe in themselves and constantly push themselves for success and victory
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
