It is very unusual for a first-time event to create the impact the Grenada Invitational Track and Field Meet did, to deliver on the excitement that was promised, and to generate the anticipation it has for a follow-up event in 2018.
On April 8, 2017, Grenada hosted the inaugural meet at the newly-renamed Kirani James Athletic Stadium in St George’s. The Grenada Invitational was developed to showcase to the world, the region’s ability to not only produce world-class athletes but to also host world-class events that can provide a foundation for the further development of track and field in the Caribbean.
The Grenada Invitational was also a major boost to the tourism industry, and as the event continues to grow, it is expected to have even greater and more positive effects on visitor arrivals. Additionally, the Grenada Invitational was broadcast live on ESPN, providing unprecedented exposure to the Island and the athletes.
More than 100 elite and world-class athletes representing over 25 countries participated in the Invitational which included global stars, such as Grenadians Kirani James and Kurt Felix; Americans Justin Gatlin and LaShawn Merritt; Asafa Powell and Veronica Campbell-Brown of Jamaica; Murielle Ahoure of Ivory Coast; Martyn Rooney of Great Britain; Patience George of Nigeria; Levern Spencer of St. Lucia, and the evergreen Kim Collins of St. Kitts and Nevis, among others.
More… Read the full article here.
