Scraders claims Carifta gold (Update with video)

Bermudian Scraders claimed silver in the Under-18 girls' 1,500m over the weekend and added to that in spectacular style yesterday with victory in a time of two minutes 10.68 seconds. It adds to her already-impressive collection of Carifta medals, which now totals six, and includes a gold in 2014.

On Saturday, the 16-year-old Berkeley Institute student clocked four minutes 43.30 seconds in the 1,500m, losing out to Cassey George, of Guyana.

Also on the podium for Bermuda at the Games was Sakari Famous, who won silver in the Under-18s’ high jump with a jump of one metre 60 centimetres, and Jahnai Perinchief, who won silver in the boys' Under-18 high jump.

Last but certainly not least, Dage Minors claimed his first ever Carifta medal in his final appearance in the Under-20s’ 1,500m. Minors produced a strong sprint finish to claim bronze in a time of 3:58.39.

Bermuda National Athletics Association president Donna Watson said: “I am so proud of my athletes. They gave it their all and as a President I could not ask for anything more. I am proud as can be.”

Minister of Community, Culture and Sports, Wayne Scott, also paid tribute Scraders and the entire team.

"I think I speak for the entire Island when I say that I am extremely proud of young Kyrah's achievement yesterday.

"Her outstanding performance should inspire us all, and we are simply thrilled that she has represented Bermuda in such fine fashion.

"I look forward to welcoming back Ms. Scraders and the entire Carifta team - whose members have also achieved medal success this weekend at the Games - and personally congratulating them upon their return."

PLP MP Michael Weeks also released a statement: "On behalf of the Progressive Labour Party I extend congratulations to the 2014 Carifta Team.  In particular I would like to congratulate our medallists — Kyrah Scraders, who won a gold medal in 800m and a silver medal in 1500m, Janhai Perinchief, who won a silver in men's high jump, Sakari Famous, also a silver medal in women's high jump, and Dage Minors, who brought home a bronze medal in men's 1500m.

"We also extend our appreciation to the entire Bermuda team who competed well at the Carifta games.  We expect good things from these athletes in the upcoming years and encourage them all to continue developing their respective crafts and working towards the Olympics. 

"Finally, we commend and thank Ms. Donna Watson and her team of trainers and administrators who help to ensure Bermuda is well represented and are ambassadors for our country."