TTOC President Brian Lewis said Trinidad and Tobago will be sending a delegation of 43 athletes and 32 officials to Tokyo 2020 ©Getty Images

Trinidad and Tobago’s preparations for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics have received a huge boost courtesy of a cash injection from the country’s Government.

The Ministry of Sport and Community Development (MSCD) has agreed to provide Trinidad and Tobago Olympic Committee (TTOC) with TTD2,795,348.89 (£290,177/$410,770/€337,715) to support the team heading to the Japanese capital for the Games.

Sports Minister Shamfa Cudjoe said supporting athletes’ preparations for Tokyo 2020 was part of the country’s efforts to get "through COVID-19 together", according to the Trinidad Express.

"Against the backdrop of COVID-19, to see athletes remain optimistic and shine their light in a time of darkness, is beautiful," said Cudjoe.

"This is why I am pleased to be part of this sport fraternity; to witness the strength and resilience of our athletes."

The MSCD wished all the Tokyo-bound athletes "the very best in their pursuit of success."

Rio 2016 bronze medallist Keshorn Walcott will hope to secure a place on the podium at Tokyo 2020 ©Getty Images
Rio 2016 bronze medallist Keshorn Walcott will hope to secure a place on the podium at Tokyo 2020 ©Getty Images

TTOC President Brian Lewis insisted the delegation of 43 athletes and 32 officials "will manage the funds that have been entrusted with us prudently".

Trinidad and Tobago has won three gold, five silver and 11 bronze medals at the Olympics, including a bronze medal for javelin thrower Keshorn Walcott at Rio 2016.

Walcott is one of only two athletes from the country to win an individual Olympic gold medal, following his victory in the men's javelin at the London 2012 Olympics.

The nation's other gold came in the 4x100 metres relay at Beijing 2008.

The Tokyo 2020 Olympics are scheduled to be held from July 23 to August 8 after the Games were postponed from 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic.