Commonwealth sports ministers to meet on eve of the Olympics

Patrick Simmons

JULY 18, 2012 - Grenada’s Sports Minister Patrick Simmons will join his Commonwealth colleagues at the 6^th Commonwealth Sports Ministers Meeting to consider policy guidelines aimed at strengthening Sport for Development and Peace.

Sports ministers from Commonwealth countries will meet in London on the eve of the Olympic Games to discuss how sport can contribute to advancing development goals.

The meeting, on July 25, will draw attention to how Sport for Development and Peace can be used in efforts to address social and economic challenges and promote global public health.

Ministers will also review comprehensive policy recommendations developed by the Commonwealth to help governments, sports bodies, intergovernmental organisations and civil society organisations in strengthening sport-based interventions.

Commonwealth Deputy Secretary-General Mmasekgoa Masire-Mwamba, who oversees the Commonwealth’s work in this area, said: “Sport is not only about competition and elite athletes. It is also not a universal remedy to development challenges, but under the right circumstances, it can convey important democratic principles such as tolerance, solidarity, co-operation and respect. It can also foster inclusion for marginalised people and support vulnerable people, including girls and women, people with a disability, those living in conflict and people recovering from trauma”.

“The recommendations will support governments and sports bodies in member countries and position the Commonwealth as a leading site of progressive sport policy."

Ministers will also discuss how to combat threats to the integrity of sport, including illegal sports betting and match fixing and review preparations for the 2014 Commonwealth Games and Commonwealth Youth Games, which take place in Glasgow, Scotland.

Commonwealth Sports Ministers Meeting is held every two years on the margins of the Commonwealth Games and the Summer Olympic & Paralympic Games.

The last such meeting (5CSMM) was held in Delhi on October 4 2010, a day after the Opening Ceremony of the IXX Commonwealth Games.

Sports Minister: Officials to meet with Grenadian athletes in New York

Sports Minister Patrick Simmons

By Michael Bascombe

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, July 18, 2012 - The Government of Grenada is collaborating with the Grenada Athletics Association (GAA) and the Grenada Olympic Committee (GOC) to create a greater linkage between Grenada and track and field athletes in the Diaspora, according to Youth Empowerment and Sports Minister, Patrick Simmons.

The Minister confirmed that a meeting is being planned for later this year that will involve athletes and officials in the Diaspora.

“We want to create a greater coordination between Grenada and the athletes outside in the Diaspora,” he said.

He said that the GAA is the driving force behind this meeting where they are expected to meet the majority, if not all, of Grenada’s foreign-based track and field athletes in New York.

The GAA is expected to officially inform the athletes as well as finalised the agenda for the proposed meeting.

“This meeting should provide an opportunity for us to discuss strategies on how we go forward in terms of keeping that line of communication open among the Ministry, the GAA, the GOC and the athletes themselves so they will be able to get better support from the Olympic Committee, better support from the Ministry and better support from the Athletics Association,” said Simmons.

The Consulate-General office in New York is also coordinating some of the initial discussions and there has been communication with the stakeholders in Grenada.

“Our office has made progress in securing the venue and some of the advanced logistics and our Press Attaché (Michael Bascombe) has been coordinating with the Ministry, the Olympic Committee and the Athletics Association,” said Consul General Derrick James.

Only recently the government announced plans to develop a home-grown athletics programme which will involve student-athletes remaining at home to pursue tertiary education as well as train with the nation’s qualified coaches.

The Sports Minister said that initial discussions have taken place with the Ministry of Education and they are expected to partner with the St George’s University (SGU). However, he said no discussions have taken place with SGU as yet.

Grenada Government seeks partnership for High Performance Centre

Sports Minister Patrick Simmons

By Michael Bascombe

ST GEORGE’S, June 24, 2012 - The Grenada Government is considering a programme to develop and harness the talents of young athletes at home.

The Cabinet this week gave permission to Youth Empowerment and Sports Minister Patrick Simmons to engage the St George’s University (SGU) to develop a home-grown academic programme for athletes, especially those who are completing Secondary Schools.

“It’s embryonic and will have inputs from key stakeholders including SGU and some national federations,” the Minister said.

The intervention by government is in light of the limited availability of sports scholarships especially in the United States.

“The possibilities for scholarships at Junior Colleges in the United States are becoming fewer and starting later this year stricter roster limits the chances of athletes,” Simmons said.

The Minister is referring to a decision taken by the Board of Directors of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) to hold the number of non-U.S. players at no more than one-fourth of a team’s allotment of scholarship players. It means that potential scholarship seekers from Grenada particularly in basketball, football and track would be affected when the new measure takes effect in August.

The proposed programme has been welcomed by two of Grenada’s leading coaches. Former two-time world indoor 400m champion Alleyne Francique and current national track and field coach Albert Joseph have endorsed the plan to develop a home-grown programme.

Both Francique and Joseph, who were in Trinidad this weekend to see the Grenadian athletes at the Trinidad and Tobago National Championships, believe that the programme will ensure that the many talented athletes could benefit from a tertiary education as well as training from the island’s experienced coaches.

“This is welcomed news and I hope that the plan is acted upon immediately,” said Francique, who was at the Hasely Crawford Stadium to see three of his athletes from Texas A&M University including Grenada’s Kanika Beckles.

“All that is needed now is a high performance training centre which could include a six-lane track and we are good to go. There are qualified coaches on the island,” he said.

“We have personnel with the technical knowledge to produce world class athletes,” said Joseph, who will be team coach for Grenada’s track and field athletes at the Olympic Games in London.

“The islands with their home-grown programmes tend to do much better in international competitions,” he said in making reference to St Kitts and Nevis.

Suriname recently launched its Regional Sports Academy and National Olympic Committees of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States have agreed to an OECS Olympic Sports Academy.

“Through our joint efforts, before long, we may add a new hero to the list of Caribbean top athletes trained and polished in our own Regional Sports Academy,” said Desire Bouterse, President of Suriname about the state-of-the-art facility to provide further training in the area of Sport for Development, as well as elite athlete development.

Felix performance hailed by Grenadian sports officials

by Michael Bascombe
ST GEORGE’S, June 8, 2012 - Sporting officials in Grenada are hailing the performance by Kurt Felix, who was crowned the national champion in the NCAA Decathlon on Thursday in Des Moines, Iowa.

Felix, who represented Boise State University, captured the gruelling two-day, 10-event competition by a 106-point margin to become the first from his school to win an NCAA title as well as an All-American in the Decathlon.

He scored a school record 8,062 points, his second score above the Olympic “B” Standard this season.

Youth Empowerment and Sports Minister Patrick Simmons said Felix performance again demonstrated the recognition of Grenadian talents through hard work and dedication.

“Kurt has reaped the benefit of his commitment and another example of what young people could achieve in life,” Simmons said.

“Government will continue to provide the incentives for our sportsmen and women to achieve world class accomplishments,” he said ahead of his Ministry’s handing over of a cheque to the Grenada Olympic Committee (GOC) to assist in its financing of Team Grenada to the Olympic Games starting in London next month.

General Secretary of the GOC, Veda Bruno-Victor and President of the Grenada Athletic Association (GAA), Charles George also extended congratulations to Felix on his recent accomplishment at the collegiate level.

“Our hope is that Kurt would translate this performance to a higher level,” said Bruno-Victor who has been mobilising resources to send athletes to qualifying events.

The former track and field coach is confident that Felix will find a niche among top contenders in the multi-event, starting with the London Olympics.

“He is young and has the ability to rise among the best in this multi-event competition,” said Bruno-Victor who is also Permanent Secretary in the Sports Ministry.

President of the GAA, Charles George said that this latest performance by Felix is the end product of some of the early coaching done at the local level. He said that the GAA will continue to provide the avenues for young athletes to develop in their respective disciplines.

The former standout at the Grenada Boys’ Secondary School and the Junior CARIFTA Games produced personal records in the 100m (10.90), 400m (48.77), discus throw (41.51m) and pole vault (4.60m). He also won the long jump (7.40m) and javelin (69.36m).

Felix believes he could score big in future competitions now that he is out of school and he does not have to concentrate on a long NCAA season.

He will begin his Olympic competition on August 8.

On Tuesday, the Ministry of Youth Empowerment and Sports will hand over cheques to the Grenada Olympic Committee and the Grenada Broadcasting Network. The money to GBN will assist in relaying coverage of the Olympics through IMC, the parent company of SportsMax.

Interview with Kirani James and Patrick Simmons in Bermuda

World 400m champion Kirani James of Grenada on the opening day of competition of the 41st LIME Junior CARIFTA Games at the National Sports Centre in Hamilton, Bermuda.
James is the guest of title sponsor LIME. Also in the interview is Grenada's Sports Minister Patrick Simmons.

Grenadian-born NYPD officer promoted to Lieutenant

Lt. Ollivierre with COP Kelly

By Michael Bascombe

NEW YORK, March 31, 2012 – A Grenadian-born New York Police Officer has been promoted to the rank of Lieutenant.

Nimrod Ollivierre received his third promotion in eight years at a ceremony attended by his family at One Police Plaza on Friday.

Lieutenant Ollivierre, who migrated to the United States in 1989, joined the New York Police Department in 1997 after two years of active duty in the United States Navy. He was promoted to Sergeant in November 2004 and then Sergeant Special Assignment in September 2008.

“I wish to convey my heartiest congratulations to Mr Ollivierre,” said Grenada’s Culture Minister Senator Arley Gill who is also a close friend of the officer. “His achievement has made all Grenadians proud and this demonstrates that with hard work and dedication regardless of where you are from you can achieve great things. Well done lieutenant.”

Lt. Ollivierre also received congratulatory messages from Youth Minister Patrick Simmons, who believes this could motivate other young people at home and in the Diaspora that achievement is boundary-less and Inspector Raymond Matthew of the Royal Grenada Police Force.

Lt. Ollivierre and his mother

Lt. Ollivierre, who grew up in the village of Grand Mal St George, received his new shield, bars and certificate of promotion from Commissioner Raymond Kelly. The promotion comes with added responsibility including a platoon commander in the NYPD.

“The support of family and friends has been crucial in my development and progress as an officer over the years,” said Lt. Ollivierre. “It’s tough, but there is no substitute for hard work, perseverance, dedication and commitment.”

Twelve years ago, then officer Ollivierre with only three years in the force and attached to the 71^st Precinct in Flatbush, Brooklyn shot and killed a store robber. He suffered chipped teeth and facial cuts in the scuffle that led to the shooting. District Attorney Charles Hynes later ruled the shooting was justified.

Lt. Ollivierre, who has been on active reserve in the Navy since 1995, had a tour of duty in the Middle East in 2006.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from John Jay College.

Cricket stands in Grenada to be named after Murray and Lewis

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, March 13, 2012 - Grenada’s Sports Minister Patrick Simmons has defended the naming of two stands in the cricket stadium after former West Indies players Junior Murray and Rawl Lewis.

In his presentation to the debate on the national budget on Tuesday, Simmons said that both cricketers were among the first Grenadians to have played Test cricket for West Indies and are now retired.

A short ceremony will be held at the cricket stadium to coincide with the start of the regional four-day match between the Windward Islands and Combined Campuses and Colleges.
Murray, who made his debut for West Indies against Pakistan in Perth, Australia in 1992, played in 33 Tests and 55 One-Day Internationals for the Windies. Lewis, former Grenada and Windward Islands' captain, played in five Tests and 28 ODIs as an allrounder.

The Minister, who also holds responsibility for Youth Empowerment, also recognised the contributions by two sports journalists – Michael Bascombe and Shere-Ann Noel – and their contributions to sports journalism in Grenada.

Listen to Minister Patrick Simmons.

                       

SAASS to showcase readiness to defend inter-col title

by Michael Bascombe

ST ANDREW, February 29, 2012 – Defending Boys’ Inter-Col Track and Field Champions St Andrew’s Anglican Secondary School (SAASS) will hold its Annual Inter-House Championship on Thursday at the Progress Park in St Andrew.

And through a collaborative effort involving Just Brands, REAL FM Radio and VDO Moments, the performances of the athletes would be viewed live on the internet. REAL FM Radio will also carry live radio coverage of the championships.

The GTM/Golden Auto-sponsored Track and Field Championships will start from 12:30 p.m. with a March Past from the School in Telescope.

More than 40 events will be contested among the four houses – Nash (blue), Pigott (green), Layne (yellow) and Julien (red). Defending champions Nash will be entering sports day with a comfortable lead on 516 points, followed by Pigott on 425.5, Layne on 384.5 and Julien on 382.5 points.

Senior sprinter Nickhelia John and sub-junior Olive Charles are expected to be among top performers in the Girls’ category at Thursday’s Meet while the likes of Ricky Thomas, Alvin Noel, Darren Joseph and Sydney Hosten in the Junior Boys’ division, Kayode Simmons, the son of Sports Minister Patrick Simmons, will compete in the Senior Boys’ Jumps and Kitakufei Nelson, son of former national athlete Livingston Nelson, should dominate the sub-junior boys’ category.

Click link to watch LIVE VIDEO coverage. 

Photo Credits: SpeedZone Track Club

Grenada "Super League" launches this week

ST GEORGE’S, February 27, 2012 - The Grenada Football Association (GFA) will launch its semi-professional league dubbed the “Grenada Super League” on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. at the National Stadium.

The tournament is in keeping with a previous decision taken by the GFA’s executive committee to introduce a semi-professional tournament by 2016.

The launch is expected to focus on the league’s format, information on the teams as well as details of the 2012 GFA’s Calendar of Activities.

However, League Commissioner, Patrick Francis said that six teams will participate in the inaugural season and Carriacou and Petite Martinique and a development team are expected to form the expansion of the franchise tournament to eight (8) teams in 2013.

Among officials expected to attend Thursday’s launch are His Excellency Governor General Sir Carlyle Glean, who is also patron of the GFA, Sports Ministers Patrick Simmons as well as representatives of the main sponsors.

Chinese technical team to inspect Grenada stadium

File Photo

By Michael Bascombe

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, February 18, 2012 - A Chinese technical delegation is expected in Grenada next Friday to begin preliminary assessment of the Track and Field and Football Stadium at Queen’s Park, according to Youth Empowerment and Sports Minister, Patrick Simmons.

The team, which will spend about three weeks on the island, will also meet with officials of the Ministries of Sports, Works and Finance as well as some of the main stakeholders including the Grenada Athletics Association, the Grenada Football Association, among others.

“The Chinese will give their professional assessment of the facility and the Ministry of Sports will determine the best option based on the financial implications,” Simmons said.

The arrangements for the rebuilding or renovation of the stadium were finalised upon during the signing of the Second Phase of a Technical Cooperation Agreement between the governments of Grenada and China late last November.

The Grenada Government has been criticised for its tardy response in rebuilding the facility which was severely damaged by Hurricane Ivan in 2004.

However, the Sports Minister said that projects like these require tremendous resources and planning, noting that efforts were made as early as 2008 to reconstruct the stadium.

The work on the stadium is expected to commence following the 2012 track and field season.

On completion, the stadium will include 8,000 permanent seats and an additional 2,000 temporary seats which could be relocated to other playing fields around the island.

KFC National Relay Meet to attract keen competition, minute of silence for Greenidge & Gibbs

File Photo

By Michael Bascombe

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, February 17, 2012 - Hundreds of athletes will converge at the National Stadium on Saturday for the 24^th Annual National Relay Meet.

The Meet, organised by the Ministry of Youth Empowerment and Sport in collaboration with the Grenada Athletic Association (GAA), is this year sponsored by Kentucky Fry Chicken (KFC).

More than 25 events will be contested over a four-hour period beginning at 3:00 p.m.

Sports Minister Patrick Simmons said that this year’s Meet has already generated keen interest with the sponsorship by KFC and the live streaming being provided by LIME Grenada.

“Schools are excited and we have seen a resurgence of clubs and the buzz around is already around that keen competition is at stake this weekend,” said Simmons.

Some of the outstanding schools in track and field including the St Andrew’s Anglican Secondary School (SAASS), McDonald College (MDC), Grenada Boys’ Secondary School (GBSS) as well as SpeedZone, Aces, Track Blazers and Police are among some of the clubs expected to compete.

File Photo

The Meet will open with the Distance Medley Relays for Male and Female in the Open categories, as well as 4x100m, 4x200m, 4x300m, 200x100x100x400m and 4x400m among midgets, youths, juniors, and seniors.

Preceding the scheduled events the organisers will have an official opening ceremony which will include brief remarks from the GAA, the title sponsor and Minister who is expected to declare the meet open. They will also observe a minute silence for the late broadcaster Anthony “Jericho” Greenidge and Alfred Gibbs. Greenidge, a former national athlete, has been the voice of track and field at the National Stadium for over a decade until his death last November while Gibbs, who also represented Grenada at track and field, was a Games Master and track official for many years. He died early this year.

The National Relay Meet was first held in 1988 at the old Queen’s Park Playing Field. It was etched out of ideas from deceased Gordon Ward, an avid sportsman and coach for various sporting disciplines.

The live streaming of the KFC National Relay Meet will be powered by LIME Grenada.

Streaming by Ustream

Step closer to new multi-purpose complex

ST GEORGE’S, January 27, 2012 – The people of Mont Toute and Grand Anse Valley are one step closer to getting new facilities for educational and recreational activities.

A symbolic sod turning ceremony was held Thursday, January 26, on the site where a multi-purpose complex will be constructed with funding from the Government and people of Venezuela.

When completed, the Mont Toute/Grand Anse Valley Development Complex will include a modern library with access to computers and other information technology. The project will also involve upgrading of the community’s playing field.

Thursday’s ceremony was attended by community representatives, as well as by Prime Minister Hon. Tillman Thomas.

The Prime Minister was joined by Labour Minister and MP for St. George South, Glynis Roberts; Foreign Minister Karl Hood, who chaired the event; Sports Minister Patrick Simmons; Tourism Minister Peter David; Agriculture Minister Denis Lett; and MP for St. Patrick West, Joseph Gilbert.

In brief remarks at the ceremony, the Prime Minister and his Ministers of Sports, Foreign Affairs and Labour, underscored the importance of the complex to the people of Mont Toute and other parts of South St. George’s.

They also thanked President Hugo Chavez and Venezuela for financing the construction of the complex and several other projects across Grenada.

Venezuela’s Ambassador, His Excellency Carlos Amador Perez Silva, said his country was pleased to help Grenada, with whom it has had diplomatic relations for 35 years.

Kirani James signs Partnership Agreement with LIME

Kirani signs agreement with LIME

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada  – Regional Communications company, LIME, made serious waves in the athletic world as the company announced that Grenadian-born 400m World Champion, Kirani James  would represent their brand in the region.

The news was delivered to a packed house of government and diplomatic officials, athletics organisations and specially invited guests. At the ceremony, which was carried live via local radio stations and streamed live via the company’s website, LIME.com, Kirani James officially signed a three- year partnership with LIME.

The telecoms company showcased its technological capabilities as LIME’s Chief Marketing Officer, Chris Dehring attended live via videoconference from his office in Jamaica and warmly welcomed Kirani into the LIME family and challenged him to push himself to victory at the upcoming 2012 Olympics.

The signing ceremony was held under the patronage of His Excellency, Sir Carlisle Glean, Governor General of Grenada. Also present was the Minister of Sports, Hon. Patrick Simmons who congratulated LIME for rising to the occasion and emphasised the need for close teamwork between the company and Kirani’s team. LIME Grenada’s General Manager, Angus Steele reflected that the local business continues to “support sports and athletics in the communities it connects and is investing in developing talented athletes in the region”.

The event guest list read like a veritable ‘who’s who’ of Grenada’s business and social circles and included host of well-known and influential persons, such as Dr. and Mrs. Latouche, President of the Grenada Athletics Association, Charles George, Chairman of the Grenada Board of Tourism Colin Dowe and Vice Provost of the St. Georges Medical School, Dr. Alan Pensick, to name a few of the persons present.

Regional Head of Sponsorship for LIME, Sheldon Keens-Douglas, in his remarks intimated that “LIME has had a long relationship with Kirani, through various avenues including sponsoring his home -club, Speedzone and through its now 4-year sponsorship of the LIME Carifta games in which Kirani rose to prominence”. While details of the contract were not released, Keens-Douglas added that” Kirani will support some of LIME’s ventures in the region, will make personal appearances on behalf of the company and feature in some of its regional campaigns”.

Kirani James brought the ceremony to a close with his remarks, and in his inimitable, quiet and humble way spoke highly of the company he had just signed on to represent. With Global brands like Nike at his door, it was certainly a tribute to the telecoms company that the young athlete remained true to his Caribbean heritage and endorsed a local and regional brand. Kirani’s words brought the audience to their feet and he humbly thanked LIME for believing that he is worthy to represent the brand. He went to distinguish LIME as a “prestigious, unique and loyal brand” and he is looking forward to a great and fruitful partnership. He thanked the company for its loyalty, patience and commitment, declaring it a “no- brainer for him to push through this deal”.

SOURCE: LIME Grenada

Ministry welcomes home track stars

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada December 23, 2011 - The Ministry of Youth Empowerment and Sports has welcomed home World 400m Champion Kirani James and Rondell Bartholomew home for the Christmas Holidays.

Both athletes arrived on the island earlier this week and already taking some well-deserved relaxation following a successful 2011 season.

“The Ministry welcomes Kirani, Rondell and other sportsmen and women who are here to spend the holidays with their families and friends,” said Sports Minister Patrick Simmons.

The Minister said that the planned Homecoming for the athletes and coach Albert Joseph will be held in January which will coincide with the National Sports Awards Ceremony.

Grenada’s athletics were thrown into the spotlight when Kirani and Rondell reached the final of the Men’s 400m at the IAAF World Championships in Athletics in Daegu, South Korea last summer.

Kirani edged the defending champion American LaShawn Merritt to secure his island’s first gold medal at the outdoor version of the World Championships while Rondell finished sixth.

Janelle Redhead, the other Grenadian athlete at the championships, was a semifinalist in the Women’s 200m.

The Grenada Government has announced plans to award the athletes and coach including former two-time World Indoor champion Alleyne Francique.

Sports Personalities show appreciation for support

NEW YORK - Two of Grenada’s young sports competitors have expressed appreciation to those who have supported them during 2011.

Swimming sensation Oreoluwa Cherebin and figure skater Oliya Clarkson have joined with national cricket coach Dwain Gill in conveying appreciation for the support this year and best wishes in 2012.

Cherebin, who will turn 14 this month, represented Grenada at regional and international swimming championships including the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and Commonwealth Youth Games while Clarkson, 14, has been impressive at competitions in Italy and Turkey.

Oreoluwa Cherebin: Swimmer

In this season of goodwill and peace, I will like to take time out to say special thanks to all those who supported me during the year. This year has been very busy and challenging for me as a swimmer adjusting to school, traveling to several Championships and training. Without the help of God, my parents, coaches, family, the Ministry of Sports, Grenada Olympic Committee and supporters I would not have been able to make it. Thanks also to the Media for supporting me and all athletes. Merry Christmas and have a Christ filled New Year.

Oliya Clarkson: Figure Skater

As the year comes to an end, I would like to thank the Prime Minister, the Grenada Olympic Committee, Minister of Sports, Mr. Derrick James and Michael Bascombe, my parents, family and friends, coaches and Grenadians all over the world for their support and encouragement. To all, I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. God bless you all.  

Dwain Gill: Cricket Coach

Happy Christmas and a productive New Year to all cricketers in particular and sports people in general.  Looking forward to helping you achieve your goals in 2012.

China may construct new stadium for Grenada

by Michael Bascombe

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, November 30, 2011 - China have indicated an interest in constructing a new track and field stadium in Grenada.

This was hinted by Chinese Ambassador to Grenada, Mr Xu Jianguo during the recent signing of the Second Phase of Technical Cooperation for the Cricket Stadium.

In reiterating China’s commitment to Grenada’s development, Ambassador Xu indicated that a Chinese technical team, expected on the island before the end of the year, will make a determination on the best option.

The Grenada Government has been criticised for its tardy response in rebuilding the facility which was partially destroyed by Hurricane Ivan in 2004.

However, Minister for Youth Empowerment and Sports, Mr Patrick Simmons said that projects like these call for tremendous resources and planning, noting that efforts were made as early as 2008 to reconstruct the stadium facility. Mr Simmons expressed appreciation to China on behalf of the Government and people of Grenada.

“Based on preliminary discussions there are indications that the Chinese may demolish the track and field and football stadium and rebuild a new facility,” Simmons said. The new facility will include 8,000 permanent seats and an additional 2,000 temporary seats which could be relocated to other playing fields around the island.

He said that the existing facility will be unavailable for cultural and sporting activities including the annual Secondary Schools' Athletics Championships when construction work starts in the New Year.

"The safety of the athletes and spectators are paramount so a determination has to be made on the best possible venue to accommodate these championships," he said.

The Grenadian Minister also joined Ambassador Xu in signing the Handing-Over Certificate of First Phase of the Technical Cooperation Agreement. The first phase included the treating and repainting of the metal structure of the stadium as well as the training of locals on maintenance of the facility.

The second phase which will be for a period of two years will include the lighting of the cricket stadium as well as ongoing maintenance.

Ambassador Xu also handed over some computers to the Ministry of Youth Empowerment and Sports.

Grenada Government to table National Sports Policy Bill

by Michael Bascombe
ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, October 20, 2011 – The Grenada Government will tabled the National Sports Council Bill, 2011 for first its reading when the House of Representatives sits on Thursday.

The bill, when passed, is expected to create a framework for incentive reward and the guaranteed development of professional sporting personalities.

The National Policy on Sports and Physical Activity will give a new approach to national administration and coordination of sports with the restructuring of the Ministry of Sports and the operation of the National Sports Council.

Minister of Youth Empowerment and Sports Patrick Simmon said that under the new policy federation and sporting organisations will have to be better structured and managed, with proper accountability and transparency to relate to Government or in order to access government assistance.

He said that one of the hallmarks of the sports policy will be the collaboration with federations and organisations for the formulation of a comprehensive development programme for athletes from talent identification at an early age to professional development of world class competitors.

Mr Simmons said that among the priority areas under the new policy on sports and physical activity will include a national sporting calendar by the National Sports Council; organisation of a Grenada National Championships every two years and support to national federations for hosting year-round competitive events.

He said that there will be the development and implementation of performance incentive framework for athletes; provision of economic support to members of national teams and assistance to national athletes to secure jobs; development of the human resource capacity across a wide range of sport-related disciplines and a national policy on the use of prohibited substances as well as dealing with conflict resolution for sporting organisations and personalities.

Minister Simmons on To The Point Oct 19, 2011 by mikebas

Grenada Government turns sod in Venezuelan-funded market project

St. George’s, October 4, 2011 – President Hugo Chavez and the government and people of Venezuela have been highly commended by Prime Minister, Honourable Tillman Thomas, and other members of the Grenada government for supply funding to complete the refurbishing of the St. George’s Market Square.

Prime Minister Thomas and his cabinet colleagues – Tourism Minister Peter David and Works’ Minister Joseph Gilbert – were speaking Tuesday at a sod-turning ceremony for the recommencement of work on the St. George’s Market Redevelopment Project.

For many years, citizens and visitors have been complaining about the dilapidated state of the market which was once Grenada’s leading outdoor fruit and vegetable market, as well a venue of social and political activities.

The Venezuelan-funded project, the Prime Minister said, is another indication of his government’s commitment to improving the physical, educational, social and cultural infrastructure of Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique.

Venezuela is providing US$16.5 million in grant funding for several projects across the nation. Of the amount, US$1.6 million has been allocated for the St. George’s Market Redevelopment Project.

Tourism Minister David, who is credited with negotiating the Venezuelan assistance when he served as Foreign Minister, praised Venezuela’s top diplomat in Grenada for his patience and hard work in ensuring the funding was made available.

Ambassador Carlos Perez was among Venezuelan and Grenadian officials who attended Tuesday’s sod-turning ceremony, which was chaired by Senator Arley Gill, Grenada’s Minister responsible for Information and Culture.

Among the crowd of spectators and observers were Market Square vendors; residents of the Town of St. George; as well as Youth Empowerment and Sports Minister, Patrick Simmons; Labour Minister Glynis Roberts; Social Development Minister Sylvester Quarless; Minister of State in the Ministry of Housing and Lands, Senator Glen Noel; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Senator Dennoth Modeste.

Minister David, who is also MP for the Town of St. George, said ownership of the market belongs to all Grenadians and urged care and proper maintenance of the property. His call was echoed by Hon. Gilbert, Minister of Works and Physical Development.

“This market, when completed, must be a showpiece for the Town of St. George,’’ said Mr. Gilbert, who noted that it was his “final public activity as Minister of Works.’’

He has been reassigned to the portfolio of Minister of Environment, Foreign Trade and Export Development. Sen. Modeste has been made the new Minister of Works, Physical Development and Public Utilities.

“The work on this market will certainly provide some jobs,’’ Hon. Gilbert said. “I want to make a plea to those of you who would be fortunate to find employment with this project to work hard and to work well.’’

Minister Gilbert cautioned that it “cannot be business as usual’’ when the refurbishing of the St. George’s Market is completed.

“With the new building must come change; there must be new attitudes,’’ he said. “You, the vendors, must be partners with government to free the market from illegal activities; to keep the market clean; and take care of the facilities when completed.’’

Mr. Gilbert said recommencing the project with a view to finishing it is in keeping with a pledge made by the National Democratic Congress when it took office following the party’s general election victory of 2008.

“Today, that promise we made in 2008 is being fulfilled,’’ he said. “I want to join in expressing sincere gratitude for the generous assistance provided by the government and people of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela for making it all happen.’’

Minister Gilbert also recognized the “personal intervention’’ of Hon. David in “spearheading the process of seeking the financial assistance necessary to undertake the completion of this project as Minister of Foreign Affairs at the time.’’

Kirani James serenaded on birthday, speaks to family & friends

St. George’s, September 2, 2011 – Family members, friends and well-wishers of Grenadian track star, Kirani James, serenaded him Thursday night on his 19^th birthday and spoke to him via video conferencing.

The event, held at Cuthbert Peters Park in James’ hometown of Gouyave, St. John, included television replays of his first placed gold medal run in last Tuesday’s 400 meters race at the World Championship in Daegu, South Korea. The race also featured Grenadian Rondell Bartholomew, who placed sixth.

With each replay, the crowd erupted in cheers and later sang happy birthday to James.

The event was sponsored by James’ local track club, Speed Zone, and backed by corporate supporters of the club such as LIME.

The evening opened with remarks from club officials, as well as from Sports Minister Patrick Simmons; MP for St. John, Michael Church; and Vice-President of the Grenada Athletic Association, Aaron Moses.

In the video conferencing, James was showered with love, praise and affection, and was treated to another rendition of “Happy Birthday.’’

Video exchanges were also held with Janelle Redhead, the Grenadian and St. John athlete who reached the semifinal of the women’s 200 race in Daegu; and Albert Joseph, who coached James during his formative years in Grenada.

Joseph, who is in South Korea, said James is treated as a celebrity in the athletes’ village in Daegu, with frequent requests from fans seeking his autograph.

Coach Joseph said James, who is now a professional athlete, will soon be participating in two European track meets, including one scheduled for September 8.

At the moment, there is no indication when James, Redhead and Bartholomew will be returning to Grenada.

While James will be heading to Europe after the South Korea games, Redhead and Bartholomew will be returning to the United States where they are based.

Since his move to the United States two years ago on an athletic scholarship, James has been coached by Harvey Glance of the University of Alabama.

The South Korea championship, organized by the International Amateur Athletic Federation, ends Sunday, September 4.

Among the races still to be decided is the women’s 100 meter hurdles. The semifinals are on Saturday and will include Phylicia George.

The athlete, who competes for Canada and was second in her preliminary race Thursday, is the daughter of Grenadian parents, Paul and Glenna George.

Ministry of Sports congratulates World Championships athletes

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, August 30, 2011 - The Ministry of Youth Empowerment & Sports would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all our athletes who continue to make us proud and most recently Kirani James and Rondell Bartholomew for their splendid performances at the World Athletics Championships in Daegu, South Korea.

The victory by Kirani James is another testament of the ability of our sportsmen and women to excel at the highest level.

Following the race on Tuesday morning I journeyed along with Prime Minister Tillman Thomas to meet the family of Kirani in Gouyave, St John.

We have expressed sincere congratulations on behalf of the Government and people of Grenada.

Let me also express congratulations to Rondell for persevering to the end despite an injury a reflection of grit and determination.

I would also like to congratulate Albert Joseph for his coaching skills and ability to lead and motivate our athletes. Let me also convey best wishes to Ms. Janelle Redhead as she embarks on her journey in the 200 metres on Thursday.

Finally, let me reiterate’s the Ministry's commitment to work with the National Sports Council, Parish Councils and the Grenada Olympic Committee to ensure we provide knowledgeable coaches, quality facilities and committed administrators to meet the demands and talent of our athletes.

Patrick Simmons

Minister for Youth Empowerment & Sports