Antigua and Barbuda Swimming Federation has assembled a dynamic 14-member team to represent the twin-island nation at the 39th CARIFTA Aquatics Championships, set for April 3-8 in Fort-de-France.
The squad reflects a thoughtful mix of emerging talent and proven performers, signaling strong intent as the nation prepares to compete against the Caribbean’s best young swimmers.
Headline names anchor the squad
Among the standout selections is former Junior Sportswoman of the Year Ellie Shaw, who leads a talented girls 15-17 contingent alongside Madison MacMillan and Selah Wiltshire.
They are joined by a deep roster that includes Anya De Gannes and Alessandro Bazzoni, both recognized as key contributors across their respective age divisions, as Antigua and Barbuda looks to make a significant impact in multiple events.
The team’s structure highlights strength in every category.
In the girls 11-12 division, Kaylee Warner and Alyssa Watkins will spearhead the effort, while Christopher Walter takes on the responsibility in the boys 11-12 group.
The 13-14 categories feature Anya De Gannes and Keziah Joseph on the girls’ side, with Alessandro Bazzoni, Jamie Tranter, and N’yriq Weste representing the boys.
For the senior youth bracket, Reuben Edwards, Jai Sindhi, and Espriit Shaw will carry Antigua and Barbuda’s hopes in the boys 15-17 division.
Experienced leadership behind the team
Guiding the team is head coach Wayne Mitchell, supported by assistant coach Nelson Molina Fojo, forming a technical unit tasked with maximizing performance across the week-long competition.
Off the deck, team operations will be managed by Lisa Isaac-MacMillan, with additional support from chaperones Ayedele Warner and Daniela Casmiro. Technical oversight will be provided by Absatou “Afi” Williams.
The CARIFTA Aquatics Championships has long been a proving ground for Caribbean swimming, consistently producing athletes who go on to excel at the highest levels of the sport.
Since its inception in 1985, the competition has grown into one of the region’s premier youth events, drawing participation from over 20 nations, including Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, and The Bahamas.
For Antigua and Barbuda, this year’s edition represents more than competition, it is an opportunity to showcase the next generation of swimming talent on a regional stage.
With a well-rounded squad, experienced leadership, and a tradition of development behind them, the team heads to Martinique aiming not just to compete, but to contend.
