Olympic Forum hosted

Beginning Monday at the Coco Palm Hotel Conference Room, the St Lucia Olympic Committee (SLOC) hosted the opening of the Olympic Solidarity Quadrennial Plan Regional Forum, which brought together several Olympic Committee members across the region.

Olympic Solidarity’s aim is to organize assistance for all the National Olympic Committees (NOC’s), particularly those with the greatest needs, so they can develop their own structures to favour the expansion of sport in their countries.

During her opening remarks, newly elected President of the St Lucia Olympic Committee, Fortuna Belrose said.“As administrators of sports and representatives of Olympiasm in this region, we all have the awesome responsibility of reflecting the ideals of the Olympic movement in all we do, instilling values such as respect, tolerance and cooperation.”

She mentioned that sessions like this provide learning opportunities so we can do a better job of delivering the services that would benefit our membership and our countries at large.

In welcoming everyone, Head of NOC Management Programs Continental Manager-America, Joanna Zipser-Graves said: “We are here to present the new Quadrennial Plan and to explain all the opportunities available to the Olympic Committees, highlight the changes and answer any questions or doubts you may have.”

Graves who coordinated the forum, was accompanied by colleagues from Lausanne, Switzerland.

During his brief remarks Minister for Youth Development and Sports, Shawn Edward, said: “This regional forum, which will be conducted here over the next two days, is critical and pivotal for the continued survival and growth of the Olympic Movement. It is always prudent to engage in strategic planning and accountability in organizations irrespective of what the organization is about.”

He appealed to national sporting federations administrators here and abroad, to continue devoting their time to sport development in their respective countries and said “your contributions over the years I am sure have been worthy of the highest commendation and have been one of the strongest or solid pillars, upon which governments have been able to predicate the new thrust for sports development in our region.”

Edward cautioned federations and associations that qualify to receive funding and technical assistance when he said, “you must ensure that well managed athlete centered and effective programs are established to guarantee maximum results.”

Monday’s session dealt with presentations of programs for athletes, coaches and administrators. It was not all work for participants. In the evening they attended a cocktail reception  at the home of Past President of the SLOC, Richard Peterkin.

Tuesday’s agenda included Olympic games subsidies, complementary programs, communications, NOCnet and financial reporting and continental programs. The 2013-2016 Olympic Solidarity Quadrennial Plan Regional Forum concluded Tuesday evening with The President’s Dinner at the William Jefferson Clinton Ballroom at Sandals Grande Resort and Spa.