CARIFTA champion Greenidge-Lewis honoured

CARIFTA Games gold medalist Shamari Greenidge-Lewis was honoured with a special award during Saturday’s Ex-Police Association 55th annual awards dinner at the Courtyard by Marriott.

After winning the Under-20 Boys’ 400m at the Dasani BSSAC Championships, the St George Secondary School student played a key role in re-writing the CARIFTA Games history books, as he anchored Barbados to a record breaking win in the Under-20 Boys’ 400m final in Grenada.

Greenidge-Lewis, who was warmly greeted by the attendees, said he was truly honoured to be recognised by the association, especially since his father Corey Lewis is a police constable, while his grandfather Selwyn Went also served in the Barbados Police Force.

“It feels great getting an award and being here tonight, being with my grandfather and his colleagues that served Barbados in the Police Force,” he said, revealing that the magnitude of his achievements were now settling in. 

“Up next is World Juniors and hopefully I can go there and medal as well and run a personal best.”

For his father, the night was a fitting tribute following his son’s remarkable season so far.

“Proud is an understatement. I keep saying that I know what Shamari gives and it’s just good to see him getting the rewards for all the hard work he put in over the years. 

“When my dad contacted me, he told me they wanted to honour Shamari. I asked if this was his doing, but he said it was the idea of the president and rest of the board, so we are really appreciative,” Lewis said.

During the event, retired police officer Vernon Wilkinson also received a special award, with roses being presented to the mothers ahead of Mothers’ Day.

(KH)