The first hurdle is cleared and the Trinidad and Tobago Olympic Committee (TTOC) is optimistic that the 2011 Pan American Games, in Guadalajara, Mexico, which will get under way next Friday, October 14, will be a successful one for T&T.
TTOC vice-president Dr Ian Hypolite, T&T's chef de mission, completed the delegation registration meeting in Guadalajara, on Thursday, and reported that there were no issues or problems with the registration of the 78 athletes, the medical team and other officials.
The T&T team is made up of 125 persons--athletes, medical staff, team managers and coaches.The exodus to the Games Village starts this weekend.
Commenting on the upcoming Games, TTOC president Michael Romany said he expects a solid performance from the athletes and teams wearing national colours in Guadalajara.
"A lot of hard work has gone into preparing for these Games, which are always very important for us given the fact that it takes place the year before the Olympic Games."
Romany also took the opportunity to acknowledge the support of the Ministry of Sport, especially the Minister, Anil Roberts.
"The Minister and Ministry have honoured their commitment to assist the TTOC with travel to Guadalajara. These are tough times in terms of the global and local economy. The Pan Am Games is an important multi-sport event for the TTOC and the country. We [TTOC] appreciate the Minister's and his Ministry's support.We have worked closely with them in a collective effort to ensure that the travel logistics are in place. The Permanent Secretary has been very fair and open with us in addressing challenges, including our adidas-sponsored outfits. No one should underestimate or undervalue the team effort needed to take a team to the Pan Am, or any Games for that matter."
Source: www.trinidadexpress.com