NASSAU, Bahamas (CMC) — The inaugural IAAF World Relays in the Bahamas next May is considered to be the biggest sporting event hosted on the islands, according to Keith Parker, executive chairman of the IAAF World Relays Bahamas 2014 Local Organising Committee (LOC).

The two-day event, to be staged at the newly-built Thomas A Robinson National Stadium on May 24 and 25, will bring together the world’s best athletes in competition.

Bahamas Association of Athletics Associations (BAAA) President Mike Sands has been named vice-chairman of the LOC and has the responsibility to liaison with the IAAF.

Grafton Ifill Jr is the LOC executive administrator and governmental relations officer. He is responsible for maintaining relations with government authorities.

The role of managing director has been given to Lionel Haven. He is responsible for the overall management, leadership and operational activities of the LOC. Haven will ensure that the IAAF World Relays is successfully achieved in accordance with IAAF regulations.

Eric Savard is the event consultant. A major events veteran, having managed numerous IAAF events, he will work hand-in-hand with Haven for the strategic planning, and is in charge of the general transfer of knowledge and delivery of the event.

Parker said hosting the event will require more than 500 event volunteers and more than 100 organising committee members and a part/full-time staff of over 25.

He expressed confidence, however, that he and his team will remind the world that The Bahamas is now a major destination for world-class sporting events.