|
|
|
|
Last Updated: Feb 13, 2017 - 1:45:37 AM |
The Bahamas showcased its premier cultural expression – Junkanoo – at the
Inaugural IAAF World Relays Bahamas 2014 held May 24 to 25, at the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium. (BIS Photo/Patrick Hanna)
|
Nassau, The Bahamas – The rhythmic and pulsating sounds of Junkanoo echoed throughout the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium as the inaugural IAAF World Relays Bahamas 2014 opened to an exciting start on Saturday May 24.
Thousands gathered in the stands of the newly renovated world class-sporting arena for the historic event, the first of its kind for The Bahamas and the region.
The event attracted more than 1,000 athletes, officials, coaches and media personnel from about 40 countries, to what has been touted one of the most anticipated sporting events in the world this year.
Thousands of Bahamians waved flags high at the inaugural IAAF World Relays Bahamas 2014 held May 24 to 25, at the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium. (BIS Photo/Patrick Hanna)
|
The ceremony kicked off with an electrifying rendition of “Bahamas Experience” performed by a combined Royal Bahamas Police Force and the Royal Bahamas Defence Force bands.
Then, to a medley of Bahamian songs beginning with the “If the Good Lord”, the parade of flags brought the participating countries to the inner track as the spectators cheered in patriotism.
A combined Royal Bahamas Police Force and Royal Bahamas Defence Force bands performed at the opening ceremony of the inaugural IAAF World Relays Bahamas 2014 on Saturday, May 24, at the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium. (BIS Photo/Patrick Hanna)
|
Also introduced were Bahamian Olympic and IAAF medalists who lined the track, followed by a heat-stirring rendition of the National Anthem- March On Bahamaland by Angelique Sabrina.
Keith Parker, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee and Lamine Diack, President of the IAAF said it was an exciting time for the Relays to be held in The Bahamas and thanked those behind the scenes for a successful event.
In declaring the Relays officially opened, Prime Minister the Rt Hon Perry Christie underscored the historic importance of the event, stating that it was “the first time an event like this is taking place anywhere in the world in one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Newest and fastest track on the planet.”
The competition got off to an exciting start of the inaugural IAAF World Relays Bahamas 2014 held May 24 to 25, at the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium. (BIS Photo/Patrick Hanna)
|
The 10-Relay event comprised the best in men’s and women’s teams in the world competing in the 4x100m, 4x200m, 4x400, 4x800 and the 4x1500m. They competed for a portion of the $500,000 payout.
The sounds of Junkanoo continued throughout the Relays, which according to the Prime Minister, will return to The Bahamas in 2015.
© Copyright 2014 by thebahamasweekly.com
Top of Page
|
|
|
|
