NASSAU, Bahamas (CMC) — Close to 1,000 volunteers are needed to work the inaugural International Associations of Athletic Federations (IAAF) World Relay Championships, scheduled for May 24-25 in the Bahamas.

Even though the event is about five months away, planning volunteers are needed now, according to Lionel Haven, managing director of the IAAF World Relays.

The Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the World Relays is also looking for persons to work in the special events and guest services divisions. These persons will assist with the team accommodations, logistics inclusive of airport pick-ups and drop-offs, transportation and accreditation.

Other areas in which volunteers are needed are for the start of competition, assisting with medical and anti-doping, corporate services, sponsorship and promotion, communications, event media services, security, stadium venue and technology.

“The volunteer section is not open as yet, but persons who are willing to assist in any of the areas are asked to contact us via e-mail for more information. A system will be set in place where persons can go to register. Kathy Ingraham, who is in charge of marketing, has more information on the volunteers. I do know that a screening test will be done, because of the nature of the event. Security will be fully enforced,” said Haven.

In addition to the volunteers, 100 persons are listed as a part of the organising committee’s team. The senior executive management team chairman is Keith Parker. President of the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations (BAAA) Mike Sands is the vice-chairman, Grafton Ifill Jr has been appointed LOC executive administrator with government relations, Haven is the managing director, and Eric Savard is the event consultant from the IAAF.

There is also an appointed board of directors with about 14-18 persons.