Sports minister Owen Darrell handed out cheques to six athletes who won medals at the Commonwealth Games as well as the Central American and Caribbean Games.

Darrell gave out the monetary rewards at the National Sports Centre Pavilion on Wednesday to Jessica Lewis, Jack Harvey, Adriana Penruddocke, Sebastian Kempe, Sakari Famous and Tyler Smith.

Swimmer Harvey, who topped the list of recipients with $6,500 after winning two medals in Dominican Republic, feels fortunate to get the honour.

“Being a professional athlete, there’s a lot of costs that go on with it,” Harvey said.

“The training, coaching, travelling back and forth to meets, so we’re very lucky to be from Bermuda and get the support that we do from the Bermuda Government and the Bermuda Olympic Association.

“It provides a real incentive to perform and train at your best knowing that you have support from the government and everyone behind you.

“A massive thank you to the minister and the Bermuda Government for appreciating what we do.”

Para-athlete Lewis, Bermuda’s sole medal-winner in Glasgow, plans to use the $4,500 she received for a packed itinerary in 2027.

“It’s absolutely amazing to get this cheque,” she said.

“You definitely don’t do it for that, but it definitely is a nice incentive to have and that will definitely help a lot with my next season.

“To represent Bermuda and the support that I’ve received through my career has been absolutely phenomenal. I’m so excited for the next two years leading into the LA Paralympics.

“I have the World Championships next year in June, which is my next major competition in Uzbekistan. Then the Parapan American Games in August, so next year will be a busy year.”

Darrell congratulated the athletes for serving as an inspiration for the up-and-coming stars.

“When our athletes compete and succeed on the international stage, they become examples of what is possible for the next generation,” he said.

“That’s why the government remains committed to supporting sports and creating opportunities for Bermudians to participate, develop and pursue excellence.

“I also want to acknowledge the individuals behind these achievements. The coaches, families, sporting organisations, support teams and everyone who has helped these athletes along the way.

“I hope that these cheques do not only serve as a recognition of what you have accomplished, but also as encouragement to continue pursuing your goals and inspiring others to do the same.”