President of the Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC), Keith Joseph, has applauded the decision by the University of the West Indies (UWI) to honour Grenadian Olympic and World Champion Kirani James with an Honorary Doctor of Laws (LLD) last November. The recognition, he believes, is not just a celebration of James' illustrious career but a testament to the resilience and excellence of Caribbean athletes on the global stage.
James, who hails from the fishing village of Gouyave, has long been a beacon of sporting excellence for the region. His achievements span multiple levels of competition, from dominating the Carifta Games between 2007 and 2010 to winning gold, silver, and bronze medals at successive Olympic Games. His impact has been felt not just in Grenada but across the Caribbean, inspiring generations of athletes to push beyond the limitations imposed by geography, history, and economic constraints.
"We live in this Caribbean after the harrowing experiences of colonisation and slavery, yet despite these burdens, we have consistently excelled at the global level," Joseph said. "The world has come to respect the Caribbean for the phenomenal talent we produce, and Kirani James is a shining example of that tradition."
The conferment of the Honorary Doctorate came at a particularly symbolic moment. UWI’s theme for the event, Celebrating Caribbean Legacy: A Kaleidoscope of Resilience, underscored the institution’s longstanding contribution to regional progress. Simultaneously, Grenada marked the 100th anniversary of the Grenada Athletic Association (GAAA), one of the Caribbean’s oldest national athletics governing bodies.
Joseph noted that James’ humility and grace have only enhanced his standing as a role model. Despite his accolades, James has remained grounded, a reflection of the support he has received from his community in Gouyave. His journey mirrors that of other great Caribbean athletes who have defied the odds to place their nations on the world map.
CANOC, Joseph affirmed, is immensely proud of Kirani James and what he represents for Caribbean sports. "His success is a reminder that sport is a powerful vehicle for personal and national development. We urge him to continue holding his head high, knowing that he is not just an outstanding athlete but a genuinely Caribbean man who exemplifies perseverance, integrity, and excellence."
James’ recognition by UWI serves as a reminder of the importance of celebrating and documenting Caribbean sporting achievements, ensuring that future generations appreciate the region’s contributions to global athletics.