Bermuda Track and Field Association president Donna Watson believes the level of competition at the Carifta Games was as “fierce” as it’s been for several years.As predicted by Watson, the Island’s leading athletes stepped up to the challenge, winning six medals at the annual event, including Bermuda’s first gold for eight years courtesy of Justin Donawa in the triple jump.But it was perennial favourites Jamaica who stole the show at the National Sports Centre, claiming a staggering 78 medals to win their 27th consecutive Carifta Games almost twice as many as their nearest rivals Bahamas.However, Bahamas did win the battle of the bragging rights in the sprints events, breaking Jamaica’s stranglehold, and showing signs they could perhaps narrow the gap between the two nations at next year’s Games in Nassau.“There really were no surprises to me in the Bermuda team as the athletes who medalled I had predicted they would,” said Watson.“I was hoping to get a few surprises but the competition this year was as fierce as I have seen it in a long time.“Jamaica and Bahamas really brought their ‘A’ team. Each one of our athletes who won a medal had to really work for it. I am proud of all of the team as I feel they gave it their all.”Watson thanked both sponsors and volunteers and supporters who helped make the Games a memorable one.“I would like to first thank my committee because the success of these Games was not only me by myself but the contributions of my entire team,” said Watson. “All of the volunteers and officials.“I would also like to thank the Ministry of Youth and Sport who were with me throughout the entire process and supported me from beginning to end.“All of our sponsors especially our main sponsor LIME and BELCO for the spectacular Opening Ceremony.“Ace Foundation, Bank of Bermuda Foundation, Logic, BTC, DHL, AKA, Q Agency, Barritts, Buzz, Island Construction, AF Smith. VTB, adidas, PTB for the organised transportation, Works and Engineering, Parks Department and of course Fairmont Hamilton Princess.“I would also like to thank my son Domico for all of his artwork and my family for supporting me throughout the entire time.“The atmosphere was electric. I was so excited to see so many Bermudians flying the Bermuda flags and supporting our Bermuda athletes.”