Sport should not be viewed as a mere pastime. Instead, it must be looked at as a pursuit that can produce significant social and economic benefits to Barbados.
That was one of the key points underscored by Minister of Sports Stephen Lashley during his address to the 35th annual National Sports Council awards ceremony at the Frank Collymore Hall on Saturday night.
While saluting the achievements of the island’s outstanding sportspersons during 2017, including gifted cricketer Shai Hope, tennis ace Darian King, rising squash sensation Meagan Best and promising swimmer Danielle Titus, Lashley emphasised the role sport had to play in the growth of the country.
“As we collectively focus on the shaping and development of our nation, I remain resolute that sport is a necessary economic opportunity which we must relentlessly pursue. Across this island are young men and women of purpose whose opportunity for development is dependent on our collective relentless pursuit,” he said.
“Each of the 70 plus sporting federations has a role to play in that pursuit. Government’s sporting agencies have a role to play and communities within the 11 parishes of our island also have a vital role to play.”
In this regard, the minster reasoned that all the stakeholders must play their part in the future development of Barbados’ sporting industry.
“I emphasise this as it is an important national vision which must not be blurred or diminished by anything as we strive to accomplish important aspects of our development. In effect, we should not limit ourselves into thinking of sports as another pastime. It is not. It is a distinctive opportunity with important social and economic benefits,” Lashley said.
“It is an opportunity to give definition to the aspirations of a wide range of our youth attaining the status of world champions. Like Meagan, Shai, Darian, Danielle and many others, it’s an opportunity to be historic.”
In providing an update on two of the island’s leading sports facilities, Lashley told the audience the redevelopment of the National Stadium remains a priority project and progress has been made with sourcing funding.
Additionally, a comprehensive maintenance policy is being drafted for the Wildey Gymnasium, which was renovated last year to the tune of $19 million, provided through a grant from the People’s Republic of China. (HG)