SLAA Receives Timely Sports Gear from Sports Ministry

The Saint Lucia Athletics Association (SLAA) proudly received sports equipment from the Ministry of Education, Youth Development, Sports, and Digital Transformation during a handover ceremony held at the Iconic Mindoo Phillip Park on Wednesday, January 28.

In attendance were the Minister for Education, Youth Development, Sports, and Digital Transformation, Hon. Kenson Casimir; Permanent Secretary Dr. Uralise Delaire; President of the SLAA, Dora Henry; along with other executive members and staff from the Ministry.

Permanent Secretary Delaire highlighted the benefits derived from Sports Minister Kenson Casimir’s vision, supported by Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre, to procure gear and equipment for various sporting associations in Saint Lucia.

“The equipment handed over to the SLAA—including track shoes, starting blocks, agility kits, shot puts, javelins, stopwatches, discus, and relay batons—will significantly enhance athlete training and has already been distributed to Soufriere and Vieux Fort,” stated Dr. Delaire.

During the ceremony, Minister Casimir expressed his satisfaction with the SLAA receiving this equipment from the government of Saint Lucia, fulfilling a commitment made by PM Pierre with an investment of EC$1 million for sports in the country.

“The goal is for all associations and affiliates in track and field to receive their fair share,” Minister Casimir emphasized. “We are pleased with the direction and the efforts put forth by the SLAA under the leadership of President Dora Henry and her team, and we feel compelled to continue investing.”

He added, “This is an initial investment, and more significant upgrades are planned for the George Odlum Stadium (GOS) this year. We are close to relocating all patients to St. Jude’s, which will allow for immediate work to commence at the GOS.”

Minister Casimir also mentioned ongoing developments at the Soufriere Mini Stadium (SMS) to ensure it becomes fully accredited for athletes.

He shared his ambitious vision for the SLAA: “I am committed to making my dream of a well-deserved 400-meter track in the northern part of the island a reality. Very soon, we will have more updates on this initiative.”

“Rome was not built in a day,” noted Minister Casimir. “While there is much work ahead, we will not take a step back or allow any challenges to hinder our progress. We are diligently working towards the opening of the Gym at Mindoo Phillip Park, designated for strength training for athletes, cricketers, and various sporting disciplines. Our goal is to enhance sporting infrastructure for the benefit of our community.”

SLAA President Henry expressed her gratitude for the timely handover of sports gear and equipment, acknowledging the support from Minister Casimir and his team, as well as the government of Saint Lucia.

“As an association, we require not only equipment but also resources. I am thrilled about the upgrade of the GOS and look forward to the day our athletes, coaches, officials, and administrators can fully utilize these enhanced facilities,” she asserted.