The Cayman Islands Olympic Committee (CIOC) is proud to announce the four young athletes who will represent the Cayman Islands at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, taking place in Senegal from October 31 to November 13, 2026. The Cayman Islands delegation will be represented by two athletes in swimming and two athletes in beach volleyball: Swimming ● Kate Galatopoulos ● Lev Fahy Beach Volleyball (Team) ● Rares Pomian ● Ronald Dylan Simpson The Cayman Islands athletes and delegation will travel to Dakar, Senegal, where they will take part in the Opening Ceremony on October 31 at the Abdoulaye Wade Stadium in Diamniadio.Their competitions will carry them through to the 7th of October. Dakar 2026 marks the fourth edition of the Summer Youth Olympic Games and represents a historic moment for the Olympic Movement. The Games will be the first Olympic event ever held on the African continent, bringing the Olympic experience to Africa for the first time in history. Approximately 2,700 young athletes from 206 delegations are expected to participate across the Games. The programme features 35 sports, comprising 25 competition sports and 10 engagement sports, providing young athletes with opportunities to compete, learn, connect and experience different cultures through sport. The Youth Olympic Games are designed not only as a high-level sporting competition, but also as an educational and cultural experience for young athletes. Dakar 2026 places particular emphasis on friendship, respect, cultural exchange, personal development and the Olympic values of excellence, friendship and respect. The Games’ official slogan, “Africa Welcomes, Dakar Celebrates,” reflects the spirit of hospitality and celebration at the heart of the event. For the Cayman Islands, participation provides an important opportunity for the country’s young athletes to gain international experience, compete alongside some of the world’s most promising young athletes, and represent their country on one of the biggest stages in youth sport.
The four athletes are excited about the opportunity and are looking forward to travelling to Dakar and being part of this historic edition of the Youth Olympic Games. A Message from the CIOC President CIOC President Bernie Bush said the Cayman Islands’ participation in Dakar 2026 is significant both for the athletes and for the country’s wider sporting development. “The Youth Olympic Games are about much more than competition. They are an opportunity for young athletes to experience the Olympic Movement, learn from athletes and cultures from around the world, develop important life skills and begin building the foundation for their future sporting careers. “Dakar 2026 is particularly special because it is the fourth edition of the Youth Olympic Games and, most importantly, the first Olympic event to be held on the African continent. It is a historic moment for Africa and for the Olympic Movement, and we are proud that the Cayman Islands will be part of it. “Kate, Lev, Rares and Dylan have worked hard to earn their places, and we are excited to see them represent Cayman with pride. We encourage them to embrace every part of this experience; from competing, to meeting athletes from other countries, to learning about Senegalese culture and being ambassadors for the Cayman Islands. “The CIOC extends its sincere thanks to the many Government ministries that continue to work alongside us and assist in supporting our teams and athletes. We are equally grateful to the individuals, organizations and wider community who donate, participate in fundraising activities and continue to show their support throughout the year. Every contribution and act of support helps make it possible for Cayman’s athletes to represent their country on the international stage.” “On behalf of the Cayman Islands Olympic Committee, I wish our athletes every success in Dakar. We are extremely proud of them and look forward to supporting them throughout their Youth Olympic Games journey. The future is bright for these youngsters.” The CIOC wishes Kate Galatopoulos, Lev Fahy, Rares Pomian and Ronald Dylan Simpson the very best as they prepare to represent the Cayman Islands at Dakar 2026.