Solo Olympian Shaun Gill Says Resources for Sports in Belize ‘Not as Great’

Competing in the 100-meter sprint at the Stade de France, Shaun Gill  secured a commendable sixth place as the solo olympian representing Belize. In this year’s games, Gill carried Belize’s hope alone. Gill first made his debut at Tokyo in 2020. 

In an interview with CNA, the 31-year- old highlighted the difficulties faced by athletes in Belize, noting that while resources are gradually improving, they still fall short of what is needed for Olympic-level training. Doing most of his training in the United States while studying at Texas A&M University-Kingsville, Gill has garnered himself as an experienced competitor. 

“Back home in terms of resources for sports, it’s not as great or where it should be. But it’s slowly getting there,” Gill explained. “That’s the reason I had to do most of my training in America…Back home, it’s not as good facilities, financing, coaching. I had to leave to get better coaching, a…better environment,” he said.

Marking his retirement from athletics, Gill declared, “It feels really good (to represent the country), this is the most support I’ve ever gotten. I’m speaking not just at home but across the globe…The performance wasn’t good, but it’s a good way to go out.”