Saunders Record Still Stands 28 Years Later
Following the conclusion of the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Australia, the record-breaking jump by Bermuda’s Clarence “Nicky” Saunders continues to stand the test of time, remaining unbroken after 28 years.
The top jump this year was from Australia’s Brandon Starc, who jumped 2.32 metres to win gold, and while very impressive, it did not break the record, and as the next Games are not scheduled until 2022, it means Mr Saunders record will stand for at least 32 years.
Mr. Saunders — who also made three Olympic appearances for Bermuda – leaped 2.36 metres [7.74ft] at the 1990 Commonwealth Games in New Zealand, becoming the first Bermudian to win a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games.
At conclusion of 2018 Commonwealth Games, record-breaking jump by #Bermuda’s Nicky Saunders continues to stand test of time, remains unbroken after 28 years | https://t.co/hEVvcoZBiD pic.twitter.com/eg7bFIg9dN
— BernewsSports (@BernewsSports) April 16, 2018
His ‘record’ of being the only Bermudian to win a gold medal has now changed, courtesy of a superb performance by triathlete Flora Duffy, who now joins Saunders as a Commonwealth Games gold medal winner, and becomes the first Bermudian woman to achieve the honour.
Saunders record remaining unbroken caps of what has been an exceptional performance by Bermuda’s team this year, with the island’s team claiming multiple distinctions, including one gold medal, one national record and six top 20 finishes.
Flora Duffy raced to victory in the triathlon, winning a gold medal, while Tyler Butterfield set a new Bermuda record in the marathon.
The island was represented by four triathletes in total, with Erica Hawley and Tyler Smith, who are both only 19, also turning in stellar performances, and all four competed in the team relay, marking the first ever appearance by Bermuda in the Commonwealth Games team triathlon.
Micah Franklin claimed victories while competing in squash, and Bermuda also made a strong showing in track and field, with long jumper Tyrone Smith making it to the finals, and the island fielding two sprinters at this elite level, with both Tre Houston and Kyle Webb in action.
A true sports ambassador in his time for Bermuda without a doubt.