Olympic Village, London – August 2, 2012
The morale of the St. Kitts and Nevis Olympic Team received a boost when the Prime Minister, Dr. the Rt. Hon. Denzil Douglas visited the Olympic Village earlier today.
He was met on arrival by Chef de Mission, Keith Heyliger and President of the St. Kitts and Nevis Olympic Committee (SKNOC), Alphonso Bridgewater.
His visit began with a brief courtesy call on the Mayor of the Olympic Village and quickly moved on to the residence halls of the St. Kitts and Nevis team where he was introduced to members of the management team then to the athletes themselves.
In addressing the athletes Prime Minister Douglas commended them for reaching as far as they have through their hard work and reminded them that they will compete not only for the glory of the sport but for the glory of St. Kitts and Nevis. He said, “You are expected to run as you have never run before.” He went on, “St. Kitts and Nevis wishes me to say to you that we are proud of you. You need to know that the country is behind each and every one of you. You are not only running for yourselves but running for your nation.”
Dr. Douglas thanked the SKNOC and the SKNAAA, the International Olympic Committee, the British Government and all those who had made it possible for St. Kitts and Nevis to be represented here.
After leaving the residence halls the team hosted the Prime Minister to lunch in the Main Dining Hall in the Olympic Village. Dr. Douglas took the opportunity to caucus with the team and to discuss their upcoming races with them. The athletes stated that they were very pleased that the Prime Minister took the time to visit them and were very encouraged by the words of wisdom and advice that he offered.
Prime Minister Douglas was accompanied on his visit by His Excellency Kevin Isaac, St. Kitts and Nevis High Commissioner in London and First Secretary, Wanda Connor.
The St. Kitts and Nevis team will see its first action on Saturday morning during the first round of the men’s 100 metres heats which begins at 5:00 am Eastern Caribbean Time.
