Tyra Fenton had a phenomenal 2024, proving herself to be one of Antigua and Barbuda’s most promising young athletes. At just 13, she dominated national and regional competitions, earning triple gold at the Sir Reginald Samuel Invitational and breaking the U15 national 400m record with a stunning 54.39 at the Cool & Smooth Interschool Championships. Tyra also claimed double bronze at the Carifta Games in Grenada and currently ranks among the top U18 athletes globally, including #1 in the OECS for the 200m and 400m. Her remarkable achievements, dedication, and poise have set a high standard for junior athletes in 2024.
Daena Bird has demonstrated exceptional growth in fencing, claiming the title of the Junior Female Fencing Champion in 2024. Her year was highlighted by her participation in a specialized training workshop with Coach Nestor Rosario, further honing her skills. Daena’s journey in the sport, which began in the Antigua Barbuda National Cadets Core, continues to inspire her peers. A dedicated athlete, she remains committed to pushing her limits and promoting fencing in Antigua, encouraging young athletes to pursue the sport with the same resilience she exhibits. With her determination and sportsmanship, Daena is poised for greater success in the future.
Akevia Warner has been a solid ball striker from a young age, and her hard work was evident in 2024 at the Eastern Caribbean Golf Championship. Competing against 87 golfers from 8 countries, Akevia secured the Lady’s Low Gross category, becoming the only female to shoot in the 70s on both days. Her victory brought immense pride to the Antigua and Barbuda Golf Association and served as an inspiring example for junior golfers. Akevia’s consistency and skill continue to demonstrate the power of dedication, motivating the next generation of golfers to pursue excellence in the sport.
Keitonya Skepple a young football prodigy has had an exceptional 2024. At the 2024 Concacaf U-15 Girls Championship in Trinidad, she scored four goals in a 5-0 victory over Grenada, showcasing her talent and leadership. Her contributions helped propel her team to success, earning her widespread recognition. In addition, Keitonya wrapped up her freshman season at Houlton High School with several accolades, including spots on the Penobscot Valley Conference 2nd and All-Aroostook teams. She also trains rigorously with the Maine Sports Training Academy, constantly refining her skills. Keitonya is poised to make even greater strides in her football career.
Jassania Joseph demonstrated exceptional resilience and skill throughout 2024, solidifying her status as one of Antigua and Barbuda’s brightest volleyball talents. Competing in the ABAVA Local Volleyball League, she was the top scorer for her team, Royal Cruisers, and played a pivotal role in Da Squad’s victory at the ABAVA Presidents Cup. On the regional stage, she represented Antigua and Barbuda at the ECVA U21 Beach Volleyball Championships in St. Kitts, where an injury hindered her pursuit of gold. Despite this setback, Jassania recovered to compete at the EVA Senior Women’s Indoor Championship, showcasing her determination and versatility.
Jenah Andrew demonstrated exceptional tenacity and skill on the basketball court in 2024. Andrews led St. Anthony’s Secondary School’s Female Basketball Team, she guided them to victory in the Cool & Smooth Interschool Basketball Senior Girls League Championship and played a key role in securing second place in the playoffs. Throughout the season, Jenah averaged 15 points, 9 rebounds, 7 assists, and 5 steals per game, showcasing her all-around abilities. Her remarkable performances contributed to her team’s highest-ever finish in the Senior Girls category and earned her the title of Female Player of the Year in the competition.
Emily Gaillard had an exceptional 2024 displaying talent and dedication, excelling in both local and international sailing competitions. She secured 2nd place overall in the Laser Radial category at the Bodret Marine Annual Laser and Optimist Nationals Championship, competing against 21 sailors. At the Antigua Classics Yacht Regatta, she won 1st place in the Single-Handed Regatta and placed 2nd at the Y2K Sailing Week Melges24 event. Her international success included a personal best 18th place finish at the Youth World Laser Radial Sailing Championship in Lake Garda, Italy. Emily’s dedication, sportsmanship, and passion make her a true ambassador for sailing.
Stuti Kashyap has had an extraordinary 2024, solidifying her position as a top young talent in table tennis. She won the U15 Girls title at the Caribbean Youth Championships in the Dominican Republic and reached the semifinals in mixed and girls’ doubles. Her success continued with podium finishes at major tournaments like the WTT Youth Contenders in San Francisco, Hungary, and Italy. Stuti’s resilience and technical prowess rose to 79th in the global U15 rankings, reflecting her dedication and exceptional competitive spirit. Her achievements are a testament to her hard work and potential in the sport.
Ellie Shaw continues to excel in breaststroke, establishing herself as a top swimmer in her age group. In 2024, she claimed gold and silver at the OECS Swimming Championships, breaking new national and OECS records, including in the 200 Individual Medley. She also achieved impressive finishes at the Puerto Rico PanAm Aquatics Age Group Championships. Ellie’s remarkable performances led to her selection by Universality as the highest female FINA points holder from Antigua & Barbuda for the 2024 Olympics in Paris. Her dedication, achievements, and growth in the sport make her a standout nominee.
Kimberly Anthony had an exceptional year in 2024, showcasing her talent and leadership in cricket. As vice-captain of the Leeward Islands Under-19 Women’s cricket team, she played a pivotal role in the Cricket West Indies Regional Under-19 Women’s T20 Championships, including a standout 37 runs off 21 balls. Kimberly also excelled in the Clare Hall Secondary School boys’ cricket league, demonstrating her resilience and skill in a male-dominated environment. In 2024, she earned a Cricket West Indies development contract, solidifying her status as a rising star in Caribbean cricket and inspiring young athletes across the region.
