IOC President arrives in Barbados

The President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Thomas Bach, OLY, who arrived in Barbados on Wednesday, March 8, on a three-day official visit, has commended the Barbados Olympic Association (BOA) Inc. for the excellent work it has been doing.

President Bach and his eight-member delegation were greeted on arrival by President of the BOA, Sandra Osborne, SCM, KC; Secretary General of the BOA, Erskine Simmons and Sir Austin Sealy, Honorary IOC Member at the Private Aircraft Services Jet Centre, Grantley Adams International Airport.

After greeting additional BOA executive members during a brief reception in the Pelican Suite, Bach told media personnel that it is a pleasure to be in Barbados and to recognise the “great work” the National Olympic Committee (NOC) has been doing to advance athletes. 

“We are on a sports enthusiastic island and are looking forward to meeting the people running sport here, of course, in particular, the NOC, but also the government authorities, and then most importantly, to meet as many athletes, in as many sports as possible, because this is what sport is about,” he said.

The IOC president continued, “It's first of all, the joy of life, but it's also the great contribution to our society and the NOC of Barbados is leading by example, in undertaking so many initiatives. Our sport is contributing to an inclusive society; our sport is an example in good governance, and our sport is contributing to the realisation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. So, it will be a great visit I'm sure”.

During his official visit, the IOC president is set to meet the President of Barbados the Most Honourable Dame Sandra Mason and Prime Minister, the Honourable Mia Amor Mottley. He will also participate in the National Primary Schools Athletics Championship (NAPSAC) medal ceremony on Friday morning before departing for Aruba.

Bach is the third IOC president to visit Barbados since the Olympic Movement recognised Barbados in 1955.