Facilities needed for sports tourism success

MINISTER OF SPORTS Stephen Lashley says Barbados cannot seriously talk about sports tourism unless the necessary infrastructure is in place.Lashley was speaking at a meeting with several members of the Barbados Cycling Union at his Constitution Road, St Michael office recently.President Keith Yearwood, first vice president Keith Simmons, secretary Glendene Boyce, racing secretary Charles Pile, and assistant racing secretary Charles Lynch were present.Lashley told the group: “There is huge potential to bring teams here during the year, and that brings in foreign exchange. The sports tourism pull is one we are interested in and we need to focus on having infrastructure that is modern and meets international standards.” He admitted that the National Stadium had its own shortcomings, while reiterating that Government had begun looking at different facilities across the island. The minister reminded the group that Barbados was in the middle of a recession and the economy was not robust enough to do all the things required. Yearwood said the Cycling Union was doing its best to develop the sport, but stressed that Government assistance was needed in some areas. (BGIS)