The Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) yesterday announced another sponsorship to support Bahamian athletes and presented a $70,000 investment towards the teams competing in this year’s CARIFTA Games.
Both the track and field and swimming teams for CARIFTA following the sponsorship have been renamed as BTC Team CARIFTA.
BTC CEO Leon Williams said supporting the progression of young Bahamians is something he will always do. He also expressed the importance of highlighting positivity among today’s youth.
“Not only are these athletes swimmers and runners, but these are academic achievers,” he said.
“So that only bolds well for The Bahamas moving forward out of this sea of negativity when all you hear about our youth is their participation in crime. So when I got to see our athletes awarded and the room is filled with dozens of Bahamians from all walks of life that shows that we are not just local but we are regional and international.”
Mr. Williams thanked the Bahamas Swimming Federation (BSF) and the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations (BAAA) for continuing to groom and train young athletes. He sent well wishes to the participants as they compete in their numerous competitions.
“Giving these young people some hope and inspiration is not a burden to BTC, it is what every corporate citizen in The Bahamas should do,” he said.
“On behalf of the 800 employees of BTC who we refer to as Flight BTC 242, we just want to wish the CARIFTA team every success as they go forth and bring back gold medalist and do exceptionally well in the CARIFTA Games 2015.”
President of BAAA Mike Sands said he is appreciative of BTC’s sponsorship.
“BTC has always been a strong supporter of youth in sports over the years and has helped us in particular, many, many times,” he said.
“We are happy, excited and delights that they have once again come to the aid of the country’s young sports stars via the BAAA’s to make this kind of very meaningful contribution.”
President of the BSF also expressed gratitude to Mr. Williams.
“This kind of support encourages all of us in the BSF, the swimmers, coaches, and all staff members and volunteers who work tirelessly toward building and sustaining a national championship team,” he said.
“This sponsorship helps swimmers focus on their training instead of worrying about having to fundraise. I am personally very pleased that BTC recognizes all our hard work and dedication.”
This year’s CARFITA Games will be held in St. Kitts and Nevis and Barbados on April 2 – 8. Fifty-three Bahamian athletes are expected to participate.
