As the world awaits the announcement of the 2024 World Athletics Women’s Track Athlete of the Year, CANOC President Keith Joseph has expressed pride and support for St Lucia’s Julien Alfred, a finalist for the prestigious award alongside the USA’s Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone. The award decision will be revealed on December 1, marking a historic moment for the Caribbean athlete, who already secured gold in the 100m and silver in the 200m at the Paris Olympics.

Joseph highlighted the significance of Alfred’s accomplishment, noting her meteoric rise from a small island with a population of under 150,000. “For the very first time in decades, a Caribbean athlete, not from any of the larger islands, and with a population of less than 150,000, is among the finalists. We are here referring to St Lucia’s track and field gem, Julien Alfred… who has literally stormed into the sporting history of her native land,” he stated.

Joseph traced Alfred’s journey from her early promise in athletics to her dominance at the CARIFTA Games, the NCAA Division 1, the World Athletics Indoor Championships, and the Central American and Caribbean Games, describing her victory in Paris as a “feat of pure beauty, grace, incredible confidence, and impeccable timing.”

Reflecting on the history of Caribbean success in track and field, Joseph drew parallels to other trailblazing athletes from the region. He recalled Arthur Wint’s first Olympic gold for Jamaica in 1948, Hasely Crawford’s 1976 win for Trinidad and Tobago, and this year’s historic achievements with the national anthems of Dominica and St Lucia being played for the first time at the Olympics. “In Paris, two of our region’s smallest islands – Dominica and St Lucia - had their anthems played for the first time at the Olympic Games. It was track and field athletics yet again,” Joseph said.

Joseph also acknowledged the achievements of other Caribbean athletes across various disciplines, especially those who have overcome unique challenges from small island nations. “We are generally considered small, even micro in some cases, but we are aware of which nations in our midst are the smallest and the very special challenges they face,” he emphasized.

In closing, Joseph extended CANOC’s full support for Alfred as she aims to etch her name in history as the World Athletics Female Athlete of the Year. “We extend best wishes to Julien Alfred in her quest to win the coveted title of World Athletics Female Athlete of the Year 2024. We certainly hope that she has the benefit of the votes of all of our members, etching her name in yet more sporting history in 2024,” he concluded.

Keith Joseph, President of the Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC), delivered a stinging critique of the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC) in a statement released on Tuesday, November 5. Joseph suggested that ANOC has lost its way and is no longer equipped to lead in today’s dynamic global sports environment.

Joseph's comments follow last week's ANOC General Assembly in Cascais, Portugal, where he said many attendees left with a sense of frustration and disillusionment over ANOC’s purpose and direction. Reflecting on ANOC’s original mission, Joseph noted, “ANOC was created as a forum for National Olympic Committees (NOCs) to address shared issues and make recommendations for mutual development. Yet, the current structure, dominated by IOC members, has turned these Assemblies into a platform where the IOC seems to be speaking primarily to itself.”

A primary concern raised by Joseph was the lack of NOC representation in selecting representatives for the International Olympic Committee (IOC). He highlighted the disparity between athletes, who generate the Olympic Games' profits, and the limited voice of the NOCs in crucial decision-making processes, asserting that athletes deserve prize money as fair compensation.

Joseph put forth a resolution on behalf of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Olympic Committee (SVGOC), which reportedly gained traction, with ANOC Secretary General Gunilla Lindberg indicating support from the IOC President. Joseph expressed optimism that ANOC will take meaningful steps to address the issues raised.

The statement also underscored CANOC’s growing stature within the international sports community. CANOC was acknowledged during the Assembly by a Deloitte representative, who lauded CANOC’s Sustainability Action Plan 2025–2030. The Assembly also facilitated discussions to broaden the sports program for the Caribbean Games, further strengthening CANOC’s role in advancing Caribbean sports.

Joseph concluded his statement by reinforcing CANOC’s commitment to the Caribbean, emphasizing the importance of unity in overcoming challenges and building a legacy future generations can be proud of.

CANOC (Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees) President Keith Joseph has praised the Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands for its strong commitment to using sport as a key pillar of the nation’s development strategy. Joseph's remarks came after a productive meeting held on Tuesday, October 15, at the Ministry of Education’s headquarters in Providenciales, signaling the start of CANOC’s week of activities in the country.

The meeting was attended by several high-ranking officials, including Hon. Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports, and Social Services; Permanent Secretary Chery-Ann Jones; Director of Sports Keisha Taylor; Deputy Director of Sports Amin McCartney; Deputy Permanent Secretary Jarrett Forbes; and Alvin Parker, Deputy Director of the TCI Sports Commission. CANOC representatives at the meeting included General Secretary Brian Lewis and Second Vice President John Abramson Jr.

During the discussions, Minister Taylor and her team outlined various initiatives aimed at integrating sports into the nation’s overall development framework. Topics included government support for national sports federations, the importance of sports in schools, coaching development, and the potential for sport tourism to boost the economy. The conversation also touched on gender equality in sport, a global issue that remains relevant to local development efforts.

Joseph commended the government’s efforts, noting the key role sport can play in youth development. "We are very pleased with the Turks and Caicos’ proactive approach in using sport as a tool for addressing some of the challenges facing today’s youth. It’s encouraging to see a comprehensive strategy that focuses not only on competitive success but on using sport as a means to build character and develop the nation’s children into well-rounded individuals."

Minister Taylor highlighted the government’s ongoing initiatives to engage youth in sports, emphasizing their broader goal of fostering commitment to the well-being of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Sport is seen not only as a path to healthier lifestyles but as a vehicle for national pride and community development.

The Turks and Caicos Islands also aim to capitalize on their natural beauty and strategic location to enhance sport tourism, a growing sector within the region. The government's vision includes developing policies and programs that position the islands as a premier destination for sporting events, training camps, and international conferences.

CANOC expressed its appreciation to the government for their continued support of the Commonwealth Games Association of the Turks and Caicos Islands, especially for hosting the meetings of the Commonwealth Games Federation, the CANOC Annual Workshop and General Assembly, and the first-ever CANOC Caribbean Sports Awards Gala.

Joseph reaffirmed CANOC’s commitment to working closely with the Turks and Caicos Islands to further enhance sport development in the region, underscoring the importance of sharing knowledge and best practices across Caribbean nations.

With the government’s strong backing and CANOC’s ongoing support, the Turks and Caicos Islands are poised to make significant strides in both national development through sport and sport tourism in the coming years.

The highly anticipated election for the presidency of Panam Sports culminated on the first day of the LXII General Assembly, with current president Neven Ilic securing another four-year term. Ilic, who has been at the helm of Panam Sports since 2017, triumphed over his opponent, Keith Joseph, President of the Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC) and second vice-president of Panam Sports.

In a decisive result, Ilic garnered 37 votes, while Joseph received 16, ensuring Ilic's leadership for the 2024-2028 period. This marks Ilic's third consecutive term, solidifying his role as the driving force behind the Pan American Olympic movement.

“I want to thank all those who supported me, for allowing me to finish this project. These elections are over and I can say that we are a great group. Everyone is part of this project. Of course, I thank my friend Keith Joseph. We will continue working so that the Americas remain a stellar continent,” Ilic said in his victory speech.

Despite his defeat, Joseph's campaign highlighted his experience within the Olympic movement and his vision for elevating Caribbean and American sport on the global stage. However, the majority of voters remained committed to Ilic, who has overseen significant developments in Panam Sports during his tenure, including the expansion of the Pan American Games and increased support for member nations.

In addition to the presidential election, the assembly also elected new Vice Presidents and members of the Executive Board. Veda Bruno Victor from Grenada, Camilo Pérez from Paraguay, and Sarah Hirshland from the United States were elected as the organization's Vice Presidents.

The assembly further solidified its leadership structure with the election of Executive Board members for the 2024-2028 period, ensuring broad representation across the Americas. Among the newly elected board members are Mario Garcia (Mexico), Tricia Smith (Canada), Damaris Young (Panama), Alfred Emmanuel (Saint Lucia), Dennis Knight (Saint Kitts and Nevis), Roberto Richards (Cuba), Nicole Hoevertsz (Aruba), Mario Moccia (Argentina), and Jorge Delgado (Ecuador).

As Ilic begins his third term as president, the focus now shifts to his continued efforts to elevate the stature of Pan American sports on the global stage. Meanwhile, Joseph's defeat does not diminish his influence in regional sports, and he will continue to play a significant role in the Caribbean sporting community.

With new leadership cemented, Panam Sports is set for another dynamic four years, with a fresh emphasis on further growth and collaboration across the Americas.

 In early October 2024, Panam Sports, the continental Olympic body for the Americas, will hold its Elective General Assembly in Asuncion, Paraguay. This event holds particular significance for the Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC), as its President Keith Joseph will once again contest the presidency of Panam Sports, formerly known as the Pan American Sports Organisation (PASO).

This isn't the first time CANOC has aimed for the highest office within Panam Sports. In 2017, three representatives from CANOC member National Olympic Committees (NOCs) — Jose Joaquin Puello of the Dominican Republic, Richard Peterkin of St. Lucia, and a candidate from St. Vincent and the Grenadines — were nominated to contest the PASO presidency. In a display of Caribbean unity, the region's representatives rallied behind Dr. Puello as the sole candidate. Despite this unified support, Dr. Puello narrowly lost to Chile’s Neven Ilic by just one vote.

As the 2024 election approaches, CANOC's involvement extends beyond the presidential race. Several of its members are vying for positions on the Panam Sports Executive Board, representing Group 2. Grenada’s Veda Bruno-Victor is the sole candidate for the Vice Presidency of the group. Meanwhile, Erskine Simmons of Barbados, Roberto Rivas of Cuba, Sara Rosario of Puerto Rico, Dennis Knight of St. Kitts and Nevis, and Alfred Emmanuel of St. Lucia are competing for three available positions within the group.

Given the limited number of positions available, CANOC must strategically evaluate its candidates to ensure the region is represented as effectively as possible. This process echoes the spirit of solidarity demonstrated in 2017, with the understanding that supporting the best candidates ultimately advances CANOC’s goals and the broader interests of the Caribbean region.

 Over the years, CANOC has proven that it possesses the quality, competence, and commitment necessary to play a significant role in international sports. The organization has a rich legacy of breaking barriers and embodying the aspirations of Caribbean peoples. This history of success underscores the importance of the upcoming Panam Sports election, particularly in securing leadership positions that will influence the future of sports across the Americas.

 CANOC’s continued growth and impact on global sports are a testament to its belief in the transformative power of sport. As the organization advocates for its nominated members, it does so with the conviction that their success will bring substantial benefits to the Caribbean region through enhanced representation, recognition, and strategic development

As teams for the ICC T20 Cricket World Cup begin arriving in the Caribbean and the USA for their final preparations, the Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC) has thrown its full support behind the West Indies T20 cricket team. The tournament, set to bowl off on June 1, marks a significant moment in cricket history, coming on the heels of the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) decision to include cricket in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.

Cricket fans across the Caribbean and the USA are eagerly anticipating the T20 World Cup, hopeful for a strong showing from the West Indies cricket team. CANOC President Keith Joseph emphasized the importance of rallying behind the team, stating, “Let’s put all of our energies in rallying around the West Indies.”

Joseph highlighted the historic significance of this World Cup, noting its unique timing post the IOC's decision. “This year’s edition of the Cricket World Cup holds a special place in the history of the sport, if only because it comes after the decision of the IOC to agree to the request by the organizers of the Summer Olympics of 2028 to include cricket on the sports programme,” he remarked.

The 2028 Olympic Games will feature cricket, but only teams entered by their respective National Olympic Committees (NOCs) will be eligible to participate. This excludes a unified West Indies team, as there is no West Indies Olympic Committee. Joseph acknowledged this challenge, drawing a parallel to the era of the West Indies Federation (1958-1962), which had unified participation in various sports.

To address this, the ICC, Cricket West Indies, and CANOC have been in discussions with PanAm Sports and Centro Caribe Sports about including cricket in the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games and the Pan American Games of 2026 and 2027, respectively. Further discussions are planned with the organizers of the South American, Central American, and Caribbean Games to consider cricket's inclusion in their sports programs.

Joseph urged cricket associations around the Caribbean to join their respective NOCs. He stated, “Our NOCs and cricket associations must work together to get it right.” While recognizing the challenges and increased expenses, he emphasized the significant opportunities. “There are immeasurable opportunities that would be open to those with whom the initiative would find favour,” Joseph added.

Cricket has deep roots in the Caribbean, having been brought by colonizers and mastered by the region’s youth to achieve global excellence. Joseph called for the region to embrace this new era, saying, “Participation in multisport Games is another frontier whose barriers to inclusion have been broken by the organisers of LA2028 and which we in the Caribbean must all embrace.”

An important starting point for this new era is the strong support for the ICC T20 Cricket World Cup. Regardless of the tournament's outcome, the collective energy and unity behind the West Indies team are crucial. Joseph concluded, “Let’s take the next compulsory steps to build the individual teams that will want to participate in LA2028.”

As the T20 World Cup unfolds, the Caribbean community stands united, cheering for their team and looking forward to a bright future in cricket, both in regional competitions and on the Olympic stage. CANOC's support for the West Indies T20 team is not just about this World Cup but about embracing a future where Caribbean cricket can shine in every international arena.

In a message resonating with pride and admiration, Keith Joseph, President of the Caribbean Association of Olympic Committees (CANOC), has reflected on the remarkable achievements of Caribbean athletes at the recent Carifta Games in Grenada and the Carifta Aquatic Championships in the Bahamas.

Jamaica secured a 38^th consecutive title at the 51^st Carifta Games in Grenada winning 84 medals, 45 of them gold, while in the Bahamas, the home team won a record-extending sixth aquatics title further enhancing their reputation as kings and queens of the pool.

"We have recently celebrated the annual Easter weekend events across the world. For us in the Caribbean, we are still reflecting on the outstanding performances of our athletes at both the Carifta Athletics Championships in Grenada and the Carifta Swimming Championships in the Bahamas," the CANOC president said.

Joseph wasted no time in lauding the athletes, acknowledging their remarkable efforts and dedication. "While not all athletes would have won medals," he remarked, "scores of them have achieved personal best performances. All participating athletes are winners insofar as having gained national selection is itself a major feat and an important part of their personal and their respective country’s sporting history."

Indeed, the records shattered and the triumphs achieved at these championships were nothing short of extraordinary. Jamaica's 38th consecutive title at the Carifta Games in Grenada, along with an impressive haul of 84 medals, exemplified the caliber of talent present in the Caribbean. Similarly, the Bahamas' record-extending sixth consecutive swimming title, won in front of their passionate home crowd, showcased the region's dominance in aquatic sports.

"Records have been broken by athletes we expect will follow the long-held tradition of becoming the next generation of sporting stars of the Caribbean," Joseph enthused. "Small we may be as countries in the global environment but through sport we have competed well and blazed a trail of success consistent with our immense potential, resilience, and resolve."

Joseph extended heartfelt congratulations to all the athletes who represented their countries at these prestigious events, emphasizing the significance of their accomplishments. He also expressed gratitude to the governments and people of Grenada and the Bahamas for their unwavering support and financial commitment to the sporting spectacles.

Moreover, Joseph emphasized the importance of government involvement in facilitating the sports development process in the Caribbean. "The continued challenges of hosting major sport competitions at the Caribbean level impact the broader sport development process," he noted. "There is an important need for us to have governments play a more important role in facilitating the sport development process in the Caribbean."

 In closing, Joseph highlighted the call for Caribbean unity and collaboration in sport, as advocated by Grenada's Minister of Sport, Gayton J La Crette. He underscored CANOC's commitment to facilitating research initiatives aimed at developing a sustainable sport development strategy for the region.

"Together," Joseph concluded, "we can show the difference sport can make to our Caribbean reality."

The Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC) has bestowed heartfelt congratulations upon Alphonso Bridgewater for his outstanding achievements, as he was honored with the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE) and The Companion Star of Merit (CSM) by St Kitts and Nevis.

This recognition was in appreciation of Bridgewater's significant contributions to sports and sports administration, a testament to his lifelong dedication to the world of athletics.

According to CANOC President, Keith Joseph, Alphonso Bridgewater's name has become synonymous with sports in the Caribbean, and while he has been involved in various capacities throughout his life, many recognize him as the distinguished President of the National Olympic Committee of St Kitts and Nevis. In this role, Bridgewater has exemplified distinction, pride, and an amiable disposition that has not only endeared him to the sports community within his nation but has also resonated well beyond its shores, reaching the international community.

“His exceptional flair for communication and profound insights into global sports matters have set him apart. Bridgewater has conducted himself with immense humility and an unwavering eagerness to assist others whenever needed. His dedication to the values inherent in sports and his readiness to confront challenges within the global sports framework make him a true ambassador of the sporting spirit,” Joseph said.

Bridgewater's influence extends beyond the borders of St Kitts and Nevis, as he has served the wider Caribbean region and the Americas in his capacity as an Executive member of Panam Sports. Additionally, he successfully persuaded his nation's government to shoulder the significant responsibility of hosting the General Assembly of the Commonwealth Games Federation.

While the honors bestowed upon Alphonso Bridgewater are undoubtedly a recognition of his remarkable contributions to sports in St Kitts and Nevis, CANOC emphasizes that they extend far beyond. They are a reflection of the person Bridgewater has become—an exemplar for many, both within and outside the realm of sports.

“In extending their congratulations, CANOC acknowledges Bridgewater not only as a brother and a friend but also as an advocate for the best in all of us. He is recognized as an administrator par excellence and a profoundly committed character whose impact has been felt not only locally but also globally,” said CANOC president concluded.

As the curtains fell on the 2023 World Athletics Championships in Budapest, Hungary, the global track and field community bore witness to an unforgettable spectacle of talent, resilience, and passion. For nine consecutive days, athletes from around the world competed under sweltering heat in their pursuit of excellence.

Among these remarkable competitors, it was the athletes from the Caribbean who stood out, earning well-deserved praise from Keith Joseph, President of the Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC).

In a message released on Friday morning, Joseph expressed his admiration for the outstanding performances of Caribbean athletes, acknowledging their dedication to representing their countries and the region on the world stage.

"The excitement of the athletics competition, once started, never abated," Joseph remarked. "The final event, the women's 4 x 400m relay, saw Jamaica's potential hold on the gold medal slip away, literally in the final strides, much to our collective CANOC chagrin. But this did not detract from the fact that on yet another occasion in the wide and wonderfully exciting world of track and field competition, Jamaica continued to carry the Caribbean cause on its back."

Joseph went on to highlight several standout performances that left an indelible mark on the championships. Shericka Jackson's remarkable victory in the 200m solidified her status as a global star in the sport. Antonio Watson's stunning triumph in the 400m, despite his status as an U23 athlete, showcased the immense potential of the region's younger talents. Danielle Williams added another gold medal to Jamaica's tally with her impressive win in the 100m hurdles.

Joseph also highlighted Hansle Parchment and Wayne Pinnock secured silver medals in the 110m hurdles and long jump, respectively. The women's 4 x 100m and 4 x 400m relay teams also earned silver for Jamaica, while Shelly-Ann Fraser Pryce and Rushell Clayton contributed bronze medals to the nation's haul in the 100m and 400m hurdles events.

The president’s praise also extended beyond Jamaica in acknowledging, the Dominican Republic's Marileidy Paulino domination of the women's 400m, while the British Virgin Islands' Kyron McMaster made a triumphant return to form with a silver medal in the 400m hurdles. Barbados' Sada Williams displayed her prowess with a silver in the women's 400m, and Leyanis Hernandez of Cuba secured a bronze in the triple jump.

Cuba continued to make its presence felt in the championships, with Lazaro Martinez and Cristian Urria taking second and third place, respectively, in the men's triple jump. Grenada's Lindon Victor made his mark by earning a bronze in the men's javelin.

Amidst the celebrations, St. Lucia's Julien Alfred emerged as a rising star, placing fifth in the 100m and fourth in the 200m. Dominica's Thea LaFond held her own, finishing fifth in the women's triple jump.

Joseph acknowledged that there were disappointments along the way for some Caribbean athletes, but their spirits remained unbroken. He celebrated the resilience that defines the Caribbean people, inspiring their athletes to give their best, fully aware that they are motivated to go 'beyond possible,' defying every attempt to deter their commitment to success.

"The World Athletics Championships are done," Joseph declared. "The performances of our athletes are now indelibly recorded in global athletics history. As CANOC, we stand proud of our athletes, medallists as well as those who missed out. Together, we affirm our commitment to our Caribbean-ness."

With these inspiring performances, Caribbean athletes have once again proven their mettle on the global stage, leaving an enduring legacy of dedication, perseverance, and pride in their Caribbean heritage. Their remarkable achievements continue to inspire and unite the region, setting the stage for even greater success in the future.

Seasoned sports administrator Keith Joseph of the St Vincent and the Grenadines is the new president of the Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC). Joseph won comfortably over his Jamaican challenger Christopher Samuda by a count of 17-9, successfully replacing former president Brian Lewis.

Joseph earned the majority of votes on the second and final day of the XX CANOC General Assembly, attended by 26 of the 30 member National Olympic Committees (NOC's) and Commonwealth Games Federations (CFG's) in Trinidad and Tobago from November 4-5.

Joseph campaigned on a record of achievement of the last CANOC executive, in which he served as the secretary general. The highlight of the last term was the successful staging of the 2022 Caribbean Games in Guadeloupe, which returned to the sports calendar after a 13-year hiatus.

Meanwhile, Lewis himself got the nod from the membership to serve as the secretary general by a vote of 14-12 over Antigua and Barbuda’s Cliff Williams. The Virgin Islands’ John Abramson conceded the post of first vice president to the Cayman Islands’ Carson Ebanks by a vote of 16-10 while Ytannia Wiggins of Barbados (18) and Guadeloupe’s Alain Soreze (19) retained positions as executive member.

Edith Cox was returned unopposed as treasurer.

The Joesph-led administration will appoint a second vice-president as the post was not filled via nominations.

Jamaica’s Christopher Samuda and St Vincent and the Grenadines’ Keith Joseph are the two candidates for the presidency of the Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC) when the organization meets for its 20^th General Assembly November 4-5 at the Hyatt Hotel in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago.

The elections will serve to select the members of the CANOC Executive Committee for the quadrennial period, 2022-2026 following Day 1 of the ninth CANOC workshop.

Samuda, who is president of the Jamaica Olympic Association (JOA) or Joseph, the General Secretary of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Olympic Committee, will replace the incumbent Brian Lewis of Trinidad and Tobago who will be going up against Antigua and Barbuda’s Cliff Williams for the position of CANOC Secretary General.

Meantime, vying for the post of vice-president are John Abramson of the US Virgin Islands and Carson Ebanks of the Cayman Islands.

Edith Cox of the Turks and Caicos is the only candidate for the post of treasurer while Ytannia Wiggins of Barbados, Alain Soreze of Guadeloupe, Bruce Farara of Montserrat and Alan Sharpe of Belize are in the running for executive members.

The nominations commission chaired by Sandra Osborne, SCM, KC, will supervise and manage the voting process to deliver secure results for all Executive Committee elections as well as decisions on selection of the host for the second edition of the Caribbean Games.

The Executive Report on CANOC’s stewardship over the past four years, the report on the Inaugural Caribbean Game and bid presentations for host of the 2025 Caribbean Games, will be the main features on Day 2.

As part of the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) commitment to the United Nations Sport for Climate Action (S4CA) Framework and the support to the Olympic Movement to protect our planet, CANOC will be attempting to minimize the use of paper at the workshop and general assembly, offering instead, as many documents as possible in digital format.

The 2021 Carifta Games will not be staged on the traditional Easter weekend. Instead, the regional junior track and field championships will take place between July 2 and 4, in Bermuda.