(PRESS RELEASE)
Pioneer in the field of sports medicine, Dr. Philmore Benjamin, is offering himself as President of the National Olympic Committee (NOC).
The elections will be held on Wednesday 20th December, 2017and Dr. Benjamin is encouraging the membership of the NOC to use this opportunity to usher in a new era in the promotion and development of sports in Antigua and Barbuda.
“The changing dynamics of sports today demand fresh ideas, new perspectives, and renewed focus if a small nation like ours is to fully exploit the opportunities that are available for our young people. I pledge my endeavor best in taking our athletes to new and superior heights,” Dr. Benjamin stated.
His track record speaks for itself, having given a good portion of his life to sports in Antigua and Barbuda, dating back to his teen years of playing cricket and football to the present where he is the preeminent medical consultant in the area of sports medicine.
“I cannot do it alone, and will never seek so to do. Our future is conditioned on a philosophy of unity and togetherness, where each one recognizes that there is a role for them to play. I am heartened by the many individuals and organisations who sacrifice to achieve the very best for our athletes and I believe the NOC can do a lot more in embracing their ideas and helping them. As President and as one who has known service all my life, that is my simple goal,” Dr. Benjamin said.
The NOC, according to Dr. Benjamin, needs to emerge from the shadows, championed by new, focused and settled leadership.
His mission, if elected, are contained in a detailed Strategic Plan that spells out in clear terms how he intends to fulfill the ideals of a new NOC and ring in a bright future for the organization.
The document touches on the development of the institutional capacity of the organization, the strengthening of national federations, new product ideas, sponsorship support, scholarship programmes and athlete development among others.
“The old ways have carried us thus far. Next Wednesday, we will be presented with the simple choice of repairing the broken or determinedly seek out a better way. Let’s do this for our athletes and country. I am truly humbled by all those who have already entrusted me with their confidence. I will be tireless in my effort to not disappoint.”
