For the first time in the over a decade-long history of the BVI Olympic Committee’s Elite Athlete Programme, recently renamed the Tahesia Harrigan Scott Elite Athlete Programme, the programme has welcomed corporate sponsors in the likes of DLT Solutions, Clarence Thomas Limited (CTL), and Conyers.
BVIOC Treasurer Mark Chapman made the announcement at a recent press conference, adding that while other small donations have been received, these major sponsors have accounted for an additional $30,000 being added to the program’s $200,000 budget for 2024, bringing its new total to $230,000.
While DLT Solutions was not represented at the press conference due to travel obligations, representatives from Conyers and CTL addressed the gathering.
Conyers Managing Partner Mark Forte said that the law firm’s decision to invest in the initiative is rooted in a strong belief that it is imperative to invest in efforts and initiatives within the community. He added that in many ways, the firm identifies with the values of the BVI’s hardworking athletes who continue to show dedication and commitment to their crafts.
Meanwhile, David Thomas of Clarence Thomas Limited said that their decision was a bit more personal, as he had been an athlete himself. He said he was honoured to be among the initiative’s first major corporate sponsors.
Thomas, who recalled facing international competition alongside others in the room that day, including three-time Olympian Tahesia Harrigan Scott, said that he had seen first-hand the challenges experienced by athletes and that CTL is dedicated to supporting and assisting wherever it can. Thomas also took the opportunity to urge other members of the community to do more to support athletes who continue to bring pride to the BVI.
It was later revealed by BVIOC President Ephraim Penn that, in addition to supporting the initiative in 2024, CTL has pledged $10,000 to the initiative annually for the next four years.
Unknown to Mr. Penn at the time, he was shortly in for another surprise, as Mr. Forte, who owns Capriccio’s restaurant, was so moved and inspired by the day’s proceedings that he pledged an additional $5,000 to the initiative.
The Elite Athletes Programme started back in 2012 to help athletes overcome financial challenges and pursue their dreams.
The programme has since supported many iconic BVI talents including Tahesia Harrigan Scott, Chantel Malone, Kyron McMaster, Thad Lettsome and Eldred Henry.