Executive Members of the Antigua and Barbuda Olympic Association
Olympians
Sponsors
Parents
Other invited guests
Good Evening!

In August of 2005 Antigua and Barbuda was a buzz of excitement as we welcomed the Queen's Baton Relay and took the opportunity to be involved in and contribute to the spirit of friendship which the Commonwealth Games foster.

Within 17 days and for an entire month, the world's attention will be focused on Melbourne Australia for a series of competitions where some of the noblest aspects of human nature: fair play, solidarity and peace will be on exhibition. You the athletes of Antigua and Barbuda will be called upon to exhibit those ideals.

During your preparations to become involved in this world event through your various practice sessions here and in Melbourne - as only through practice you will be able to give yourself the best possible chance of competing to your potential; we ask of you to be more concerned with your character than with your reputation. Your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.

As you take the flag of Antigua and Barbuda with you, exude what it stands for - national pride, confidence and the strength of our people. For one month you will be our nation's ambassadors. Make who you are speak loud and clear.

You our athletes who will be competing in athletics, cycling, shooting, swimming and triathlon should recognize that you are a part of a grouping that transcends geographical and other barriers. Sports embraces diversity. It fosters tolerance and understanding. It embodies universal values such as, self-discipline, perseverance, respect for others and team spirit. It is, in essence, a celebration of the human spirit and its pursuit of excellence. My government recognizes the intrinsic value of sports in fostering national pride, closer communities, stronger families and more resilient individuals. My administration's decision to appoint two members of parliament to this division of government kept that in mind. During the last budget presentation, over seven million dollars was allocated this year for sports development including the upgrading of sporting facilities, its management and future. We are also giving active consideration to a proposal from the Antigua Barbuda lawn tennis association for a venue for the construction of a national tennis stadium. The YMCA and YASCO facilities are being upgraded and we are also looking at how we can improve on the community facilities.

I will like to commend you our athletes, especially the youth for choosing sports over the many anti-social behaviours which seem to want to take root in our young people today. By taking part in sports which is now enabling you to represent your country, you are demonstrating that sports can and is playing a big role in your youthful development.

It is my hope that through your performance in Melbourne that you will inspire other youths and give them confidence that they can change their own lives and make a difference in the lives of others.

I must also commend the members of the business community who have come forward in sponsoring our athletes. As members of the business community, you are playing an important role in boosting the sports industry through sponsorship and marketing. Companies around the world are building strong brands by aligning themselves with different sports and sporting events. Your contributions are greatly appreciated.

Finally Ladies and Gentlemen, we applaud the coaches and officials for the excellent job they are doing in molding our young people. Your task is not a simply one and it is my wish and I am sure the wish of all of Antigua and Barbuda, that your hard work garner success in Melbourne.

To you our athletes, remember that the only way you are going to get anywhere in life is to work hard at it. There is no getting around it. If you do, you will eventually win. All the best to you in Australia.

Thank You.

Digital photos by Maurice F. Merchant