Sport Ministry set to pay out $1m to Commonwealth medallists

THE MINISTRY of Sport and Community Development will reward Trinidad and Tobago’s Commonwealth Games medallists with just over $1 million through its 2017-2027 Reward and Incentives framework.

Minister Shamfa Cudjoe recently confirmed via Facebook that $250,000 will be given to each individual athlete who wins gold at the Games, which concludes in Birmingham, England on Monday.

Silver medallists will earn $125,000 while bronze receivers pocket $62,500.

TT concluded its Commonwealth Games campaign with six medals – three gold, two silver and one bronze.

Cyclist Nicholas Paul, who captured a complete set of Commonwealth medals (gold, silver and bronze), is set to take home just under half a million dollars for his exemplary performances.

Richards is the next highest earner with his golden showing in the men’s 200m and combined victory, with Dwight St Hillaire, Asa Guevara and Machel Cedenio, in the men’s 4x400m relay.

Also among the medals was TT’s men’s 4x100m relay team of Jerod Elcock, Eric Harrison jnr, Kion Benjamin and Kyle Greaux, who captured silver.

Additionally, Cudjoe congratulated TT’s relay teams for their outstanding performances on the Alexander Stadium track on Sunday.

“Your efforts exemplified tenacity and determination to succeed. The overall performance of Team TT has truly inspired all of us.”

Cudjoe reaffirmed the government remains committed to supporting its athletes and also paid tribute to the athletes, coaches, and management for their hard work.