UVI Track and Field 2025 Season Preview

ST. THOMAS, U.S. Virgin Islands, March 11, 2025 – The University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) Buccaneer men's and women's track and field teams are gearing up for their second season in the NAIA's Historically Black College and Universities Athletic Conference (HBCUAC), formerly known as the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference (GCAC). Both teams are coming off a seventh-place finish in the GCAC Championships last season.

Heading into this season, Dale Joseph will be returning for his second consecutive season as the head coach for both teams. Joseph is focused on revitalizing the Buccaneer track and field programs, which he previously led successfully during his tenure at UVI from 2007-2020.

"We have a small group this year," said Joseph. "Despite facing some challenges that led to a decrease in our numbers, we are still determined to give our best effort. The team we are putting together will undoubtedly showcase our talent and dedication."

Men's Team
The men's roster will feature senior Shirmoy O'Garro and freshmen Gabriel Elcock and Mark Hayes-Ayala. All three athletes are new to the track and field program and are eager to make their mark during the 2025 campaign. O'Garro will compete in field events, participating in the javelin throw and long jump. Elcock will showcase his speed in the 100-meter and 200-meter sprints, while Hayes-Ayala, an experienced cross-country runner, will focus on the 800m and 1500m long-distance events.

Women's Team
The sole female competitor for the 2025 season is freshman Ruby Brahene. Brahene will be competing in two events, aiming to excel in the javelin throw and shot put. Brahene will be the first female student-athlete to compete in field events for UVI since the University's athletic programs joined the HBCUAC.

The Buccaneers teams are set to participate in two track meets this season. The first event on the schedule is the Embry Riddle "Running Elements Classic," taking place from April 3-5 at the Embry Riddle Track and Field Complex in Daytona Beach, Florida. Following this, the Buccaneers will travel west to Shreveport, Louisiana to conclude the season by competing against conference rivals in the 2025 HBCUAC Outdoor Track and Field Championships on April 11-12.