With recent spikes in the number of Covid-19 cases in Bermuda, a final decision on the fate of the 2021 Car Games will be announced in May.
The May date for a final decision was reached during a North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletic Association (NACAC) meeting on Saturday that was almost attended by member federations as well as chairs of NACAC commissions and working groups.
This year’s edition of Carifta Games is scheduled for August 13-15, in Bermuda. The regional junior meeting was not held in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Bermuda transferred its hosting responsibilities to 2021.
The global pandemic eliminated the possibility of staging the Games on Easter weekend. NACAC had chosen July 2, 3 and 4 as the new dates, but was forced to postpone due to the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) external exam scheduling.
August dates, however, are now under threat. Bermuda is currently testing a spike in Covid-19 cases. At Saturday’s meeting, Carifta 2021 Local Organizing Committee member Mia Bean spoke of a non-negotiable requirement that any unvaccinated visitor to Bermuda must be quarantined for 14 days.
As the vaccination requirement would affect all under-17 athletes as well as some under-20s, it is a major stumbling block. Other potential challenges were put on the table, including the impact of Covid-19 positive testing during the Games, available hotel rooms, and timelines for ordering charters and making payments.
Following extensive discussions, LOC Carifta 2021 was given until April 30 to report to NACAC Council on the latest position with all issues raised in the information session. The LOC is expected to meet with Bermuda Government officials ahead of the month-end deadline.
On receipt of the LOC Bermuda report, the NACAC Council will make a decision and communicate it to member federations. (SportsMax)