‘What started as a mere idea, is actually coming to fruition.’ So stated Jamir Claxton, Director of Sports, as he sat with other key stakeholders, to give an update on the SWIM to WIN initiative that will be launched this weekend.
He informed that the launch will take place this coming Sunday, January 19, at the Oualie Beach Hotel’s conference room.
Among the persons expected to attend, will be high-level swim coach, Anne Mc Clindon and the coaches to be trained, during the period January 19th to 25th.
Interested persons can register at the Department of Youth and Sports, on weekdays, between 8 am and 4 pm. There will also be special registration drives at Best Buy supermarket in Gingerland, on Saturday, January 18 and also on Tuesday, January 21 at the Best Buy supermarket in Charlestown.
The press briefing took place at the Youth and Sports Department, on Tuesday 14th January.
Terri Andrews who is representing the Special Olympics Committee noted that it was a collaborative effort which included many partners: Special Olympics; The Nevis Yacht club; Red Cross Society; Four Seasons Homeowners Association; Sail to a brighter future and the Youth and Sports Department. She indicated that all of the partners were very committed to the cause of teaching people on Nevis to get over the fear of the water and to learn to swim.
Caroline Wood of Sail for a brighter Future used the opportunity to ask for volunteers to assist with water safety, during the coaching sessions. She asked interested persons to contact the Youth and Sports Department.
Winston Crooke, President of the St. Kitts and Nevis Swimming federation, used his poetic skills to announce: ‘’This is your year to conquer your fear.’ He pointed to the fact that this year, significantly, will mark the 50th anniversary of the infamous Christena disaster and this program/initiative, will serve as a counter to that.
Tonya Lowe of the Four Seasons Homeowners Association stated that the homeowners fully endorse the initiative and every year, they contribute to the Red Cross swim program, by donating the use of swimming pools.
The general public is once again being urged to be proactive and to be a part of the program.