ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, August 5, 2011 – The Grenada Government on Friday extended congratulations to quarter-milers Kirani James and Rondell Bartholomew on their performances at the Samsung Diamond League in London.

James, who was competing in his first professional race, ran a world leading time of 44.61 seconds to win the men’s 400m at the Aviva London Grand Prix in Crystal Palace.

Bartholomew, who was the previous world leader from his early-season 44.65 seconds from the Texas Tech Open on April 2, finished seventh in 45.86 seconds. It means that Grenadians now have the top two fastest times over the 400m so far this year.

The Government’s commendations to the athletes were conveyed by Sports Minister Patrick Simmons who has been following the progress of the national athletes.

“On behalf of the Government and People of Grenada I would like to congratulate Kirani and Rondell who continue to fly our flag internationally,” he said.

“We are confident that our athletes are in line to bring home medals from the World Championships of Athletics starting later this month and London Olympic Games in 2012.”

“My hope is that their performances today will encourage and motivate other Grenadian sportsmen and women as they prepare for upcoming sporting events,” the Sports Minister said.

Only this week the Sports Minister along with the Permanent Secretary Veda Bruno-Victor, who is also the General Secretary of the Grenada Olympic Committee, were updating nationals at home and abroad about the plans in preparing the athletes and other sports representatives for the London Games.

The Sports Minister also said that the government is close to finalising arrangements for the refurbishment of the track and field stadium at Queen’s Park.