CEO Foster takes heart in many firsts at CAC Games
BARRANQUILLA, Colombia — Recapturing the moment Jamaica’s flag was hoisted, signalling its participation in the 23rd Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games, CEO of the Jamaica Olympic Association (JOA), Ryan Foster says it signals the dawn of a new generation for sporting prowess in Jamaica.
“Today was the flag-raising ceremony for Jamaica, Land we Love. It is the beginning of a new generation of achievements, dreams coming true and athletes and federations self-actualising,” said Foster.
“It was a proud moment whereby the JOA can facilitate such aspirations while at the forefront, having big expectations of this Games being the most successful.”
The parent body for sports in the country assembled the largest-ever contingent for competition at the CAC Games, sending a record 185 athletes to represent in 17 sporting disciplines, 50 more than the previous high mark. The number of disciplines for representation also scaled new heights, to 17.
“The Games is already a first for many things, to include the largest contingent, the largest number of sporting disciplines being represented. So why not have it being the most successful, similar to the last Commonwealth Games as well as the recently concluded World U20 Championships?” Foster questioned.
“Who said sports is on the decline in Jamaica? The JOA will continue to play it’s part in moving sport forward in a real and strategic way.”
Foster also commented on the CAC Games’ opening ceremony, which also took place on Thursday, July 19.
He said: “The opening ceremony of the 2018 CAC Games marks the beginning of a new chapter for many representing our country. Jamaica, under the theme ‘The future is Now’, will have new sports such as shooting, karate and wrestling.
“The 2018 Games will represent the building blocks for many federations that have aspirations for Olympic qualification, and the athletes who were present to walk out at the opening ceremony gleaned with pride to roars from a very supportive crowd,” added Foster. “The JOA will continue to not only support, but to ignite our members to greater heights.”
