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NACAC Athletics now has a new Council in place following its elective Congress held in San Jose, Costa Rica. Learn about the five candidates vying for places on the World Athletics Council and their visions for advancing athletics worldwide.
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CANOC to celebrate 20th anniversary
On Monday, July 31, 2023, the Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC) will commemorate its 20th anniversary across its member National Olympic Committees (NOC) and Commonwealth Games Associations (CGA). Last year, during the Elective General Assembly in Trinidad and Tobago, hosted by the country’s Olympic Committee (TTOC), the organization observed its 20th founding anniversary. The new executive, which emerged from the General Assembly, agreed on a year-long celebration to mark this historic milestone. Various media outlets have covered the consistent celebratory activities undertaken by CANOC in the past year.
Rationale
The formation of CANOC stemmed from the need for collaboration among national multisport organizations across the Caribbean region. Previously, NOCs and CGAs operated independently, focusing solely on their international engagements without considering regional unity and cooperation. The Caribbean’s colonial history and political events influenced the individualistic approach of sporting organizations during the first half of the 20th century. However, there were progressive elements within some organizations who recognized the importance of working together to effect meaningful and lasting change.
From Caribbean Caucus to CANOC
The journey to CANOC’s establishment began with the Caribbean Caucus of NOCs (CCNOC) and the idea of organizing the Caribbean Games. Over time, the CCNOC evolved into CANOC, aiming to serve as a coordinating body for regional multisport events. In 2003, during the inaugural General Assembly of CANOC, the constitution was approved, and the organization officially came into existence.
CANOC confronts the challenges
CANOC faced challenges in the early years, particularly in realizing the Inaugural Caribbean Games. Although the first attempt at hosting the Games faced setbacks, the organization persisted in its Olympic Education initiatives and extended its reach and influence. The Covid-19 pandemic further complicated matters, leading to the postponement of the Games, but CANOC’s commitment to showcasing Caribbean resilience and unity never wavered.
Happy 20th anniversary
As CANOC celebrates its 20th anniversary, it reflects on its role in shaping and reshaping the Caribbean. The organization remains steadfast in its commitment to building Caribbean unity and developing the region through sport. Just as sport has historically brought about meaningful change in societies worldwide, CANOC continues to work towards a unified Caribbean.
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I begin by extending my most sincere welcome to all of you to this our Elective Congress, signaling the end of our four-year tenure as the duly elected Council of NACAC Athletics.” That’s the way President of NACAC Athletics began his welcome address at the start of the Elective Congress of the Area Association on Sunday earlier today, Sunday 23 July 2023.
The Assembly began promptly at 3.00 pm as advertised and concluded just over three hours later, with the bulk of the time being taken by the election of officers to serve on the new Council.
For his part, World Athletics President, Lord Sebastian Coe, briefly recounted the journey that began in 2015 when he was elected and started a process of comprehensive change in the international federation. He reflected on the experiences of member federations in the NACAC Area as they confronted the challenges in fulfilling their commitment to our sport.
President Coe noted that World Athletics has developed an extensive database. The reputation of the organization has improved more than that of any other sport in the world. “We have grown together and have not been afraid to make tough decisions. There will always be tough decisions going forward, but we must remain steadfast, always trusting each other.
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Join us as we recap the exhilarating NACAC Athletics Age Group Championships 2023 in Santiago de Los Caballeros, Dominican Republic. Witness the rise of young talents as they achieved record-breaking performances and showcased their dedication to the sport. Bahamas emerged as the overall champions, outshining Jamaica and Cuba. The event witnessed a record number of participants, making it one of the most exciting editions to date. As we celebrate the achievements of these young athletes, our focus now shifts to San Jose, Costa Rica, where we will host the Biennial U18 and U23 Championships and convene our Quadrennial Elective Congress. Be part of the action and witness the future stars of track and field at their best!
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The weekend of trials in NACAC Athletics brought thrilling performances from top athletes, including Sindy McLaughlin-Levrone, Gabby Thomas, and Sha’carri Richardson. In the field events, Ryan Crouser and Tara Davis-Woodhall showcased their exceptional skills. Meanwhile, the passing of former St Lucia Athletics Association President, Wayne Burton, saddened the NACAC family. The article also delves into the training methods for speed and speed endurance, offering workout examples. Lastly, updates on the upcoming CARIFTA Games celebrations and preparations for the 51st edition in Grenada are shared.
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The recent ouster of the West Indies cricket team from the Cricket World Cup 2023 qualifying tournament has left fans and officials in disbelief. Prime Minister Keith Rowley of Trinidad and Tobago expressed his disappointment, stating that it was the worst cricket match ever played by a West Indies team. The team’s defeats against the Netherlands and Scotland, both considered cricketing minnows, have highlighted the ongoing decline of West Indies cricket. Reflecting on the history of West Indies cricket, there have been periods of success and failure, glory and disappointment. From the colonialist era to the leadership of Frank Worrell and the dominant era of players like Viv Richards and Clive Lloyd, West Indies cricket once struck fear in the hearts of opponents. However, in recent years, the team’s performance has steadily declined, leading to a lack of interest from other nations in hosting matches against them. Prime Minister Rowley’s scathing criticism of the team’s performance is justified, as the decline has been evident for decades. The allure of money and the rise of shorter versions of the game, like the Indian Premier League, have shifted the focus from skill and professionalism to financial gains. Many young cricketers in the Caribbean prioritize money over the sport’s history and the values it represents. The issues plaguing West Indies cricket reflect a broader problem in Caribbean society, where moral and ethical standards have eroded over time. The lack of exemplary leadership from politicians and officials has contributed to this decline. As Prime Minister Rowley aptly noted, the embarrassment faced by the West Indies team didn’t happen overnight; it has been a long time coming.
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Kineke Alexander delivers an empowering and grateful message.
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