NSC throws support behind LSU-bound track star Malachi Austin

Young Guyanese track star Malachi Austin has received support from the National Sports Commission (NSC) that will enable him take up a scholarship at the Louisiana State University (LSU) in 2025.

Austin recently met with Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle, who facilitated the acquisition of airfare for the 17-year-old, who is a silver medalist at the Youth Commonwealth Games and the 2024 CARIFTA Games Under-20 400m champion.

Austin was also a member of the record-breaking Youth Commonwealth and CARIFTA Games 4x400m Mixed Relay teams.

Ninvalle said the NSC willingly embraced the opportunity to assist the athlete, using the opportunity to extend best wishes on his stint at LSU.

Austin was understandably elated to receive the boost and expressed gratitude to Ninvalle and members of the NSC for acceding to his request for support.

Ninvalle took the opportunity to remind the standout athlete of the importance of remaining focus, as he cited instances of local athletes not fulfilling their potential on overseas scholarships.

Austin has credited his coach, Julian Edmonds, for playing a crucial role in his development and instilling the self-belief that has propelled him to international success.

He also thanked the U.S. Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole D. Theriot for making the opportunity at LSU possible.

The former Tutorial High School student recently won the runner-up award for the NSC Junior Sportsman-of-the-Year 2023.

This scholarship represents a significant step forward in Austin’s athletic career, allowing him to train at a world-class institution and compete at the highest level.