Kyron McMaster to receive OBE for services to sports
Kyron McMaster is the territory’s newest recipient of an Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his remarkable contributions to sports.
At just 21 years of age, McMaster made history by winning the Virgin Islands’ first-ever Commonwealth Games medal, clinching gold in the men’s 400m hurdles event at the 2018 Gold Coast Games in Australia.
This victory came in the wake of the catastrophic 2017 hurricane that devastated the region, taking the life of his coach and mentor, Xavier “Dag” Samuels, and destroying training facilities.
McMaster’s athletic prowess continued to shine as he won the Diamond League twice, secured another Commonwealth gold at the Birmingham 2022 Games, and earned a silver medal at the 2023 World Track and Field Championships in Budapest. This silver was a first for the territory at this event.
Additionally, he set a national record at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games with a time of 47.08, despite COVID-19 restrictions impacting his training.
Beyond his sporting achievements, McMaster has been an inspirational figure in his community. He dedicates time during his visits home to support young people, sharing life lessons from his upbringing in Tortola.
The award recipient also advocates for grassroots sports, collaborating with the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth Affairs, and Sports to ensure necessary investment.
Governor John Rankin lauded McMaster’s achievements, stating, “I am delighted that this award has been made in recognition of Kyron’s outstanding achievements and unparalleled service to the Virgin Islands.”
With his two Commonwealth Gold medals and World Championship silver medal, Governor Rankin said McMaster has placed the territory on the sporting map worldwide and given cause for national celebration, even in some of the most challenging times in the aftermath of the 2017 hurricane.
“Off the track, Kyron continues to inspire, using his own experience to motivate young students and athletes. I offer my warmest congratulations to Kyron,” the Governor added.
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Congratulations and God’s love and continued blessings upon your life.
Every dog Dick and harry got a obe it has no value anymore
Let me know when they give you one, misery loves company I see.
He’s not humble. I look at the video with his mom and plus Kathy. And this dude is forever on his phone. His head down in his phone ain’t acknowledge no one. No respect whatsoever.
Your comment is so unfair and erroneous. It is obvious that the young man responded to a text onscreen before the interview commenced. As soon as the interview began, he put his phone away. The interaction between him and his Dad demonstrated sufficient humility for me.
Congratulations on his achievements.
I love your comment. It is proof that he is now a proper celebrity the you found yourself reaching so hard to make him look bad.
Kyron is as humble as he can be. you shouldnt judge if youre not in his shoes please. Besides, in the BVI we don’t talk bad about our ambassadors so at least this tells me youre commenting as a foreignor. BYE.
Well Deserved!
@Pp lets be more positive and give the youngman some credit for his achievement and in recognition of our small country. It’s well deserve, done with the bashing
Congratulations my Son and remember to always “Stay Humble”. This Medal is a recognition of your
outstanding Achievements here below but God Almighty has a greater Accolade for you if you stay humble and truthful to HIM. God Bless you my Son.
Well deserved honour. Continue to keep God at the front, back and center of your life. May your blessings flow ceaselessly.
Keep your eyes laser focus on your Creator and your career, remembering to give along the way. Forget the naysayers. They are behind you for a reason:)
Well deserved honor!