British Virgin Islands track and field athlete Kyron McMaster has been named among those recognized by King Charles’ 2024 New Year Honours list.
McMaster was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2024 New Year Honours for services to sport in the BVI.
The 26-year-old athlete who specialized in the 400-meter hurdles won the British Virgin Islands’ first-ever Commonwealth Games medal after placing 1st in the 400m hurdles at the Gold Coast 2018 Games in Australia. This was in the aftermath of the 2017 devastating hurricane, which destroyed homes, livelihoods, and all training facilities. The hurricane also sadly claimed the life of McMaster’s coach and mentor, Coach Xavier “Dag” Samuels.
McMaster has since gone on to win the Diamond League twice and achieve another Commonwealth gold at the Birmingham 2022 Games. He finished second at the 2023 World Track and Field Championships in Budapest, earning a silver medal. This was the first-ever medal for the British Virgin Islands at this championship event.
On visits home, McMaster dedicates his time to supporting young people, using his own experiences growing up on Tortola to share lessons learned. He also champions grassroots sports, working with the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth Affairs and Sports to ensure it gets the investment needed.
Statement from BVI Governor
In a statement, the BVI John Rankind congratulated McMaster on receiving the honor.
“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 Champion Silver Medal, Kyron has placed BVI on the sporting map across the world 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.”
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