Sports Commission hails Noel's record-breaking CAC Games gold

Director of Sports Steve Ninvalle, on behalf of the National Sports Commission (NSC), has congratulated Guyana’s swimming sensation Raekwon Noel on his historic, record-breaking gold medal performance at the XXV Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games in the Dominican Republic. Ninvalle said the NSC, and by extension the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, is immensely proud of Noel’s outstanding achievement, particularly the manner in which he secured the title in record-breaking fashion. “On behalf of the National Sports Commission and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, I extend heartfelt congratulations to Raekwon Noel on his remarkable accomplishment. We are extremely proud of his achievements and especially the fact that he delivered such an outstanding performance in record-breaking time. His success is another proud moment for Guyana,” Ninvalle said. Noel etched his name into the history books on Tuesday by capturing gold in the Men’s 200-metre Individual Medley, clocking a sensational 1:59.35 to become the first Guyanese swimmer to break the two-minute barrier in the event. His winning time not only shattered the national record he had established earlier in the day during the heats but also eclipsed the previous CAC Games record of 2:00.97, set in 2023. Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle (Photo: News Room/Avenash Ramzan/February 11, 2026) Ninvalle noted that Noel’s success was no surprise, pointing to the swimmer’s steady progression over the years. “Raekwon has shown steady improvement throughout his career, and his performances at these Games are a reflection of the dedication, discipline and countless hours of hard work he has invested in training. Guyana is proud to celebrate his success, and we know this achievement will inspire many young athletes.” The Director of Sports also highlighted that Noel is among the elite athletes who have benefited from the NSC’s support programmes and expressed confidence that the swimmer can continue adding to Guyana’s medal tally before the Games conclude. “Raekwon is one of the elite athletes supported by the National Sports Commission, and we are delighted to see that investment producing results on the regional stage. We look forward to his continued success throughout the Games and hope he brings home even more medals for Guyana.” Ninvalle also extended congratulations to taekwondo athlete Ceili Peterson, who earned a bronze medal in the Women’s Under-49kg competition, commending her for adding to Guyana’s medal haul with a determined performance. Guyana’s Ceili Peterson has etched her name into the nation’s sporting history by securing bronze in the women’s under-49kg taekwondo at the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games