AS A RESULT of the unavailability of seating in the stands of The National Stadium, a number of changes have been made to this year’s National Senior Games.
The changes were announced today by Minister of Social Care, Constituency Empowerment and Community Development Steven Blackett during a press conference at the National Stadium.
“We have conceptualised a wonderful arrangement to facilitate comfortable seating for our patrons on the cycling velodrome which we will reconfigure and provide tent covering and seating for approximately 1 500 persons,” the Minister explained.
He added that there would also be two designated open areas where patrons are invited to relax with their own cushions, blankets and chairs.
Additionally, Blackett announced that the games, previously advertised as a two day event will now be condensed into one day.
“The games will now only occur on Saturday April 18, commencing with the opening ceremony at 10 am and running into late evening with a possible fireworks display to bring the curtains down on the day’s activities.”
The ceremony, which will be emceed by Mac Fingall, will be formally opened with a performance by the Royal Barbados Police Force Band, Sister Marguerita Marshall and this year’s Community Dance Fest winners Motivation Dancers.
This will be followed by the presentation of the Torch and the lightning of the cauldron.
The day’s events will then continue with the finalists of the Q in the Community 50m Dash competing for the “Q” prize as well as the highly anticipated track and field finals.
Of the latter, Blackett noted, “We are expecting a large increase in the number of athletes competing this year and naturally we expect to see some records broken”.
The Minister also used the opportunity to assure the public that although the stands are off-limits, chemical toilets will be provided and positioned strategically around the facility.
Nonetheless, he promised that the day’s proceedings would be filled with “frolic, fun, entertainment and competitive sport”. (BGIS)
