Anguilla-born Zharnel Hughes is representing Team GB in three events in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games this summer.
The record-breaking athlete will compete in the men’s 100 metres, 200m, and 4x100m relay – each taking place in August.
The Government of Anguilla’s London office in a Facebook post on 30 July said it was “thrilled and incredibly proud” to see Hughes leading the Great Britain delegation.
“His journey from the beautiful island of Anguilla to becoming a prominent athlete on the world stage is nothing short of inspiring,” the office wrote.
Specialising in the 100m and 200m, Hughes has an impressive list of achievements.
This includes breaking both British sprint records in 2023 and winning his first global individual medal, a bronze, in the 100m at the 2023 World Championships.
“Hughes’s dedication, hard work, and perseverance have not only brought him success on the track but also recognition beyond athletics,” the office said.
He is featured in the sports documentary series ‘Sprint’ on Netflix which showcases the stories of remarkable athletes and the values that drive them.
“As we look forward to the Paris Olympics, we are confident that Zharnel and Team GB will make us all proud,” the London office said.
“Their commitment to excellence, sportsmanship, and representing our nation with pride is truly commendable.
“Wishing Zharnel and the entire Team GB the very best of luck in Paris – let’s bring home the gold!”
A history of excellence
Despite its small size, Anguilla has a long history of producing world-class athletes, the London office wrote.
Keith Connor, born in Anguilla, represented England and won a gold medal in the triple jump at the 1978 Commonwealth Games in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
He clinched gold again at the 1982 Commonwealth Games in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, and secured a bronze medal at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.
One of the greatest British athletes of his generation, Connor went on to become the Australian Olympic coach.
Shara Proctor, an Anguillan by birth, also made significant strides in her athletic career.
She won her first senior medal for Great Britain in 2012, a bronze in the long jump at the IAAF World Indoor Athletics Championships.
In 2015, she set a British national record with a leap of 7.07m, earning a silver medal at the World Championships in Beijing.
Proctor also claimed bronze medals at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and 2018 European Athletics Championships, making her one of the most decorated long jumpers in British history.
She announced her retirement from athletics in 2022.
“Zharnel Hughes continues this legacy of excellence,” the London office said.
