24 year old Lestrod Roland, of St. Kitts and Nevis, is the youngest on his Olympic team and on the National Senior level for their federation. He is a graduate of South Plains College, Texas where he studied Mechanical Engineering. Although unable to compete at the 2016 Rio Olympics due to an injury, Roland overcame all odds and qualified for his team.
How did you find out that you qualified for the Olympic Games?
I was informed/ told by the local SKNOC (St. Kitts and Nevis Olympic Committee)
How did you feel?
I was really excited to make the national team once again. This makes it my second Olympics. Even with my knee problem, it was something I have been working towards and I somehow knew I would make it.
How would a typical day go for you as you prepared for the Olympic Games?
I would wake up around 6:30 – 7:00 am then drop my mom to work. I then go to the gym. Following my workout, I go home and relax before going out again later in the day to run errands and so on.
What drawbacks did you have on your journey to being a professional athlete?
Finance. It is very hard if you don't have a stable income or some sort of financial help. That is a major part of being an athlete and most people don't understand. The Government does not assist. Each athlete helps themselves or they put together funds to help each other as a club.
What is your source of motivation?
Motivation is just "the grind got to pay off". I'm not training hard to not make it anywhere. This as well as support from others.
What future do you see for yourself in sports?
I'm just going to keep at track, continue to work hard and make the best of it. I don't know what the future holds, but I'm going to try to make it as bright as possible and go as far as I can.
Does any of your future plans involve youth empowerment? If yes, how?
I really can't say, I don't know. But I do help out when it comes to the track and training, more coach oriented.
What changes can be made to develop sports in your country/region?
Sports is a big thing for our country. The only downside is its only big in the junior section. After High School, 80-85% of the athletes finish with it (athletics). This happens mainly because there is no personal drive. To most there is nothing to look forward to if they continue. There isn't much support and also not much, if any, programs or systems put in place to teach or help the youth continue what they enjoyed.
How could you advise youth in the region who dream of being a professional athlete/an Olympian?
Don't give up, no matter what it seems like. It may seem rough, but it will pay off in the long run. Always keep your head up and stay positive.
