The Trinidad and Tobago Olympic Committee (TTOC) today honoured national cyclists Darnel James, Jelani Nedd, and Ryan D'Abreau during a special Medal Upgrade Presentation Ceremony held at Olympic House.
The three athletes were officially presented with silver medals following the reallocation of results in the Men's Team Sprint event at the II Junior Pan American Games Asunción 2025.
The medal upgrade followed the completion of the anti-doping results management process conducted by Panam Sports, which resulted in the disqualification of a member of the Colombian team and the subsequent revision of the final standings. As a result, Trinidad and Tobago's team was elevated from bronze medal position to silver medallists.
The ceremony was attended by the TTOC’s executive members and staff, President of the Trinidad and Tobago Cycling Federation (TTCF), family members, and media representatives, all gathered to celebrate the athletes' achievement and commitment to excellence.
In her remarks, TTOC President Diane Henderson congratulated the athletes on their accomplishment and commended them for their dedication, perseverance, and commitment to representing Trinidad and Tobago with distinction.
"This medal upgrade is a testament to the value of fair play, integrity, and clean sport. While the recognition comes after the Games, the achievement remains a significant milestone in the careers of these young athletes and a proud moment for Trinidad and Tobago sport". "She added: "Clean sport is not just about what the rules require. It is about who you are when no one is watching, and what you want your legacy in this sport to mean".
Remarks were also delivered by TTCF President – Rowena Williams, Chef de Mission for the Trinidad and Tobago delegation to the Junior Pan American Games – Jariel McColin, and Immediate Past President Mr. Brian Lewis who is also a member of the TTOC Anti-Doping Committee, highlighted the Importance of ongoing education, protecting clean athletes and preserving the integrity of sport. He also commended President Henderson for her unwavering commitment to supporting the efforts of the TTOC anti-doping Committee.
The highlight of the ceremony was the formal presentation of the silver medals to James, Nedd, and D'Abreau, followed by reflections from the athletes, who expressed their gratitude to their families, coaches, teammates, National Federations and support personnel who contributed to their success.
Speaking for the group, Darnel James stated:
"I am extremely happy and proud to receive this medal today, we have worked so hard to achieve our third place medal and to be upgrade to the silver is truly spectacular".
Sonja Johnson, Vice President of the delivered the her closing remarks thanking the President Henderson, Chef De Mission and the TTOC staff for the amount of work and support put into supporting the athletes. She also thanked the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs for their support towards anti-doping and clean sport for Trinidad and Tobago.
The extends a hearty TTOC congratulates Danell James, Jelani Nedd, and Ryan D'Abreau on this well-deserved achievement and remains committed to recognizing and celebrating the accomplishments of Trinidad and Tobago athletes at all levels of sport.
Source: TTOC Release