DAKAR, SENEGAL — British Virgin Islands hurdler Taraji George is set to represent the Territory at the 4th Youth Olympic Games, which officially open today, October 31, in Dakar, Senegal.

George, a 100-metre hurdler, will compete at the international sporting event, which runs from October 31 to November 13, 2026, bringing together some of the world’s most promising young athletes.

The Youth Olympic Games (YOG), organised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), were first held in 2010, with subsequent editions in 2014 and 2018. The Dakar Games mark the return of the competition after an eight-year break and the first time the event is being hosted on African soil.

Under the Youth Olympic Games eligibility framework, participating athletes fall within the designated 16–17 age category, with National Olympic Committees represented across the competition.

George’s participation places the British Virgin Islands among the nations showcasing their emerging athletic talent on the international stage.

The Games provide young athletes with an opportunity to compete at a high level while gaining international experience and exposure to the Olympic movement.

For the BVI, George’s appearance represents another opportunity to fly the Territory’s flag on the global sporting stage and demonstrate the potential of its next generation of athletes.

The Territory will be watching as Taraji George takes to the track in Dakar to represent the Virgin Islands.