A new approach is needed

by Michael Bascombe

The performances and reviews of the national relay teams, particularly the men, at the just concluded Penn Relays in Philadelphia, USA have indicated a number of factors which should be considered in moving forward.

The national stadium (track and equipment); participation in competitions and the collaboration of the Grenada Athletics Association, the Grenada Olympic Committee and the Government are paramount.

1.      The urgency of relaying the track and electronic equipment for proper gauging of our athletes becomes critical. The new track should be the centre-piece for next year’s athletic championships at home including, Independence Parish Champs; Relay Meets; Inter-Col; National Champs; and the Olympics Send-off Meet.

2.      The two relay teams ran in front of a capacity crowd of 48,000 plus spectators at Franklin Field on Saturday. About four hours later, millions of viewers were able to watch their performances and the encouraging reviews. Ato Boldon said “They have Kirani James on 2^nd leg and Bartholomew on anchor. Bartholomew has the fastest time in the world at 44.65 and then Kirani James, 4^th fastest ever this year at 44.80 indoors 400.” “And the noise you heard from the crowd is because of a stellar 2^nd leg by Kirani James.” “And look at the anchor leg we talked about, Bartholomew from Grenada. Look at this young man rising to the occasion and makes his Penn Relays statement. I don’t think he is going to catch the Olympic Champion Angelo Taylor but what a great leg and it seems almost clear now that Grenada will qualify for the World Championships.” These are some of the descriptions from the commentators.

3.      The 2011 Penn Relays are gone but it’s not too late to begin preparations for the 2012 edition scheduled for April 26-28. There are many Grenadians who are willing to provide assistance including accommodation to minimise the cost. However, there must be a coordinated approach in planning. The confirmation of Grenada’s participation in other championships should also be made public at an earlier stage.

4.      The authorities in Grenada need to tap into Corporate Grenada. LIME, Western Union, Caribbean Airlines/Air Jamaica, among others, were all major sponsors at the Penn Relays and also have strong presence in Grenada.

5.      There is an opportunity for the Ministry of Sports, the Grenada Athletics Association and the Grenada Olympic Committee to work closely in ensuring that objectives are achieved.

6.      The Grenadian Diaspora is willing to play its part but a new approach is needed.