Grenadian youth athlete Nikaiyah Mitchell has apologised for unsportsmanlike behaviour following her defeat in the 3,000 metres at the ARIZA National Championship on March 1.

In a video shared by Uncut Media, the St Joseph’s Convent Grenville student became emotional as she publicly apologised to race winner Azariah Simon. The incident occurred moments after the race when Mitchell refused a hug and declined a bottle of water Simon attempted to hand her.

Addressing the situation, Mitchell said her reaction was driven by grief following the recent death of her father.

“Sorry Azariah for how I acted. I was just upset because my father passed away and I was trying to make him proud and I felt like I didn’t make him proud,” she said.

“What I did was wrong. Even though you guys might not forgive me for it and might not even like me for it, I want to say that I am sorry because I really regret I what I had done.”

Simon has since accepted the apology. Speaking to Uncut Media, she said the matter had been resolved between them.