Bermuda team for the Carifta Triathlon, Aquathlon and Mixed Relay Championships in Barbados this weekend have received sponsorship from Appleby.

The squad of 38 athletes — 20 males and 18 females — left the island yesterday. After weeks of preparations, Bermuda’s budding triathletes will test their skills against their peers from Bahamas, Barbados, Jamaica, Aruba, Puerto Rico, Trinidad & Tobago, Grenada and Antigua & Barbuda.

With an age range of 11 to 17, some of the young athletes in the team will competing in the championships for the first time.

As the principal sponsor for the second year, Appleby has expressed its dedication to fostering the growth and empowerment of the young athletes, in line with the firm’s commitment to nurture local sporting talent and promote healthy competition.

Appleby partner Clive Langley, who is also a member of the side’s coaching department, working together with head coach Neil de Ste Croix, spoke of the huge excitement from the young athletes ready to fly the Bermuda flag this weekend.

“We have seen the highest level of interest from athletes wanting to compete in this year’s Carifta Triathlon, Aquathlon and Mixed Relay Championships and this has meant that all athletes have raised the bar as far as personal performances in the qualifying races,’’ Langley said.

“The dedicated coaching team that’s included overseas coach Mike Harlow and local coaches Alec Shepherd, Richard Lau and Caroline Black have worked tirelessly in order to make sure we have the strongest team possible in what is expected to be the largest field in the history of the event.”

Brad Adderley, Appleby Bermuda’s managing partner, stated that the sponsorship is as a result of the leading international law firm’s eagerness to help shape the careers of the island’s future stars.

“Our enthusiasm for nurturing young athletes in their triathlon journey reflects our deep-rooted dedication to Bermuda’s youth and sports communities,’’ Adderley said.

“We’re excited to partner with the Bermuda Triathlon Association’s youth development squad for the second year, and send our heartfelt best wishes to the Carifta team.

“The growth of the squad has been remarkable, fuelled by the unwavering efforts of countless volunteers, including devoted coaches and parents to ensure the programme’s success.

“We’re thrilled to see these young athletes have an amazing experience and can’t wait to celebrate their achievements.”