Black Sands Swimmers Strike Gold and Record Personal Bests in Barbados

From left: Seth Byron, Kione Deshong, Zariel Nelson, Matthew Ballah. Photo credit: Black Sands Swim Squad.

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By S.Browne. Updated 5:36 p.m., Monday, February 23, 2026, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).

Four Vincentian swimmers from the Black Sands Swim Squad struck gold and recorded multiple personal best times at the Barbados National Long Course Swimming Championships.

Kione Deshong (Boys 13–14) led the charge with a haul of two gold, three silver and one bronze medal, recording four personal best times across his events.

In the Boys 15–17 age group, Matthew Ballah secured two gold and two bronze medals, along with two personal best performances.

Also competing in the Boys 15–17 category, Seth Byron captured two bronze medals and achieved one personal best time, reflecting steady improvement.

Zariel Nelson added to the medal tally with one bronze medal and recorded one personal best time, contributing to the team’s overall success.

Next up on the competition calendar is the SAC Invitational Swim Meet, to be held at the Shrewsbury Aquatic Center in Ratho Mill from February 26th to March 1st, 2026.

The Black Sands Swim Squad is encouraging families and supporters to come out and cheer on the teams as they continue their competitive season.

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This information was sourced from a press release sent to us by the Black Sands Swim Squad.