The CARIFTA Games (Caribbean Free Trade Association Games) are one of the Caribbean’s premier annual track and field competitions, showcasing the region’s young athletic talent and serving as a launching pad for future Olympic and world champions.
What Are the CARIFTA Games?
- Founded: 1972
- Purpose: To promote goodwill among Caribbean countries through youth athletics.
- Participants: Athletes aged U17 (Under-17) and U20 (Under-20) from Caribbean nations.
- Events: Includes sprints, distance running, relays, high jump, long jump, shot put, javelin, and more.
Countries That Compete:
Includes most English-speaking Caribbean countries, plus others in the region like:
- Jamaica
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Saint Lucia
- Grenada
- Dominica
- St. Kitts and Nevis
- Cayman Islands
- Haiti (sometimes)
- Suriname , and more.
Notable Alumni:
Many world-class athletes first gained fame at CARIFTA, including:
- Usain Bolt – Olympic legend
- Veronica Campbell-Brown – Olympic champion
- Shaunae Miller-Uibo – Olympic 400m gold medalist
- Kirani James – Olympic 400m gold medalist
Recent & Upcoming Games:
- 2024 Host: Grenada
- 2025 Host: To be announced (rotates annually)
Why It Matters:
- It’s more than a meet — it’s a cultural celebration, a talent showcase, and a springboard to global competition.
- Many Caribbean athletes credit the CARIFTA Games with giving them the confidence and exposure needed for international success
