Bermuda’s athletes have been handed the opportunity to apply for a High-Performance Sponsorship programme scheme.

The aims of the initiative, which has been put in place by the Department of Youth, Sport and Recreation are to recognise eligible Bermudian athletes, provide financial assistance and funding in order to help them reach elite standards and represent the island at major international events.

To be eligible for the programme, which will be open until June 30, athletes must demonstrate their commitment and high level of performance in their respective sport.

“The Bermuda Government values the importance of sport in Bermuda,” said Owen Darrell, the Minister of Youth, Culture and Sport.

“In the 2023-24 Budget we committed to meeting the goals of the National Sports Policy. One of our aims is to ensure additional funding for High Performing Athletes is made available.

“We are excited to be able to provide our high-performing athletes a mechanism of support to assist them in their performance.

“Local and overseas competitions at pinnacle events give our athletes an opportunity to showcase their levels of skill, mastery, competitiveness and sports excellence.

“We have seen some amazing success with our young people and elite athletes on the international stage. So, we must ensure that our up and coming athletes and our established high performing and elite athletes continue to dominate on the world stage. The High-Performance Sponsorship programme will assist greatly in this regard.”

For more information and to request an application, call 295-0855, e-mail msbutterfield@gov.bm. To apply, persons can visit www.youthandsport.bm.