Children and adults came out in their numbers last weekend to support the BVI Olympic Committee (BVIOC) and member national federations in the 3rd Annual Sports Festival which was held at the A.O. Shirley Recreation Ground.
Seven of the national federations were present at the event, including the Virgin Islands Archery Association, BVI Athletics Association, BVI Basketball Federation, BVI Football Association, Virgin Islands Softball/Baseball Association, Boynes Taekwondo, and Volleyball.
The event also welcomed special appearances from His Excellency the Governor John Rankin, softball athlete Mr. Kennard Dawson, former pro volleyball player Ms. Sharonda Pickering and the National Women’s 3×3 Basketball team players, Ms. Joy Victor, Ms. Shaliqua Fahie, Ms. Kiara Woodley, Ms. Jolene Bowens and Ms. Keithrece Smith.
Speaking at the event was the President of the BVIOC Mr. Ephraim Penn who touched on the importance of hosting the event.
I also caught up with the President of the BVI Athletics Association Mr. Steve Augustine who spoke about his association’s presence at the event.
Dr. Harlan Vanterpool representing the BVI National Anti-Doping Organisation was in attendance and spoke with athletes, coaches and parents on the relevance of the anti-doping regulations in athletes’ lives and in playing clean sports.
Last by not least was Softball Coach and Owner of Deh Future Clubbers Baseball/Softball Camp Mr. Jamal ‘Lefty’ Allen who described the experience as a good one on the day.
Olympic Day was established in 1948 as an annual occasion where everyone everywhere can get together in their communities to celebrate the Olympic values of Respect, Excellence, Friendship and Peace while celebrating the Olympic Day pillars: Move. Learn. Discover.