Two representing BVI at Youth Olympic Games this month

Ten-time CARIFTA Games medalist Elinah Phillip will be representing the BVI at the 2018 Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires, Argentina this month.

The 18-year-old swimmer will be competing in the 50-metre and 100-metre Freestyle and the 50-metre Butterfly events at the Games, which will run from October 6 to 18.

“I am really looking forward to racing, meeting athletes from around the world and experiencing Argentinian culture,” Phillip said.

Local quarter-miler Malik John will also be representing the territory at the Youth Olympic Games this year.

The 17-year-old will make his debut at the Games when he competes in the preliminary round of the 400-metre track event on October 11 —three days after Phillip competes in her first event at this year’s games.

“I intend to represent the British Virgin Islands to the best of my abilities,” said John, who noted that he is also looking forward to experiencing the culture in Argentina.

President of the BVI Olympic Committee Ephraim Penn said having two BVI athletes competing in this year’s Youth Olympic Games is just another addition to the “phenomenal sports year” the Virgin Islands has been having.

“It is fitting that we close out 2018 with the participation of these two young athletes who represent hope for our continued success in major international games. We look forward to supporting and encouraging them at Buenos Aires 2018,” Penn said.