Jamaican athletes dominated the second day of the NACAC Under 18/23 Championships in Apizaco, Mexico, on Saturday, July 12, 2026.
This surge in victories reinforces Jamaica's standing as a global powerhouse in youth track and field. The performance suggests a deep talent pool capable of maintaining the nation's historical dominance in sprinting and hurdles on the international stage.
During the Saturday events, the Jamaican contingent added 25 medals to their overall count [1]. This brings the total tally for the nation to 41 medals [2]. The team's success was particularly evident in the sprint hurdles, where Jamaican athletes won three of the four available gold medals [1].
The Jamaica Observer said, "Jamaicans dominated on Saturday's second day of the NACAC Under 18/23 Championships in Apizaco, Mexico, adding 25 more medals to take their tally to 41 after winning three of four gold medals in the sprint hurdles" [1].
The championships serve as a critical benchmark for athletes in the Under 18 and Under 23 categories. By securing a high volume of medals in a single day, Jamaica has established a significant lead in the competition's standings. The focus on the sprint hurdles underscores the technical proficiency and speed of the current youth crop, a combination that often translates to success at senior world championships.
The event in Apizaco continues to showcase the regional competitiveness of North American, Central American, and Caribbean athletes. With the current pace of medal acquisitions, the Jamaican team is positioned to finish the championships as a leading force in the region.
“Jamaican athletes added 25 medals to their overall count”
The overwhelming success of the Jamaican youth team at the NACAC Championships indicates a sustainable pipeline of elite sprinting talent. By dominating the Under 18 and Under 23 categories, Jamaica is ensuring that its transition to senior-level competition remains seamless, maintaining its competitive edge against other sprinting nations in the region and globally.
