ROAD TOWN, Tortola, Virgin Islands — Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, Honourable Sharie de Castro, has praised Virgin Islands sprint sensation Adaejah Hodge following a remarkable weekend that propelled her into the history books as one of the fastest women ever to compete in track and field.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, De Castro described Hodge’s achievements as “legendary,” noting that the young athlete stunned the athletics world by recording times that now rank among the fastest in history.

Hodge clocked an astonishing 10.63 seconds in the 100 metres, making her the fifth-fastest woman in world history in the event. She also posted a blistering 21.68 seconds in the 200 metres, placing her eighth on the all-time world list.

“Adaejah has left the world completely speechless,” De Castro said. “To become the fifth-fastest woman in world history in the 100m and the eighth-fastest ever in the 200m in a single weekend is an achievement of legendary proportions.”

The minister said Hodge’s success serves as a powerful reminder of the talent emerging from the Virgin Islands and the possibilities available to young people who pursue their dreams with determination and discipline.

“Adaejah’s journey from our local community games to dominating global athletics proves that the British Virgin Islands breeds giants,” De Castro stated. “Thank you for your dedication, your inspiring spirit, and for showing our youth that no dream is too big.”

De Castro extended congratulations on behalf of the Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports to Hodge, her family, coaches, and support team, commending the collective effort that has helped shape one of the territory’s most accomplished athletes.

“The British Virgin Islands stands firmly behind you as you continue to blaze trails on the world stage,” the minister added.

Hodge’s record-breaking performances have sparked widespread celebration throughout the Virgin Islands, with residents, government officials, and sports enthusiasts hailing her as a national hero and a source of inspiration for the next generation of athletes.

Her latest accomplishments further cement her status as one of the brightest stars in international athletics and mark another historic milestone for Virgin Islands sports.