Bermuda has confirmed a squad of four athletes across three sports for the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal.
The Games, running from 31 October to 13 November, mark the first Olympic sporting event to take place on African soil.
Javelin thrower Tatiana Sousa will lead Bermuda’s challenge in athletics, while Maggie Mewett and Noah Maranzana represent the island in the pool. Gianluca Bortoli rounds out the quartet in the triathlon.
Former international swimmer Ashley Yearwood will lead the delegation as Chef de Mission, supported by coaches Terry-Lynn Paynter, Geri Mewett, and Michael Harlow.
“This is a truly historic edition of the Youth Olympic Games,” said Yearwood. “It provides a wonderful opportunity for our athletes to compete, learn, build friendships, and experience the rich culture and hospitality of Senegal.”
The athletes earned their berths following a rigorous qualification process and expressed pride at testing themselves against elite global competition.
“Competing at these Games has been a goal of mine for the last two years,” said triathlete Bortoli. “To earn selection after racing against the region’s top juniors makes this a special accomplishment.”
Sousa added: “When starting javelin, I never dreamed I would get to compete at such a high level. I will make every effort to implement technique and utilise the strength I have built up this off-season.”
