It is not quite 007 but the Bond brothers are in Nevis!
Bruce and Brandon Bond out of the USA are currently on Nevis, conducting a training course for potential Life Guards on Nevis.
An official opening ceremony was held at the Nevis Disaster office, on Tuesday 28th June.
The proceedings were ably chaired by Director of Sports, Jamir Claxton, who welcomed all of the participants and officials and also extended a warm welcome to the facilitators, brothers Bryce and Brandon Bond, who are actually visiting the island for the first time.
He emphasized that people should make maximum use of the ocean which is one of the greatest resources available to all on the island.
Also addressing the gathering was Terri Andrews of Swim to Win, who noted that the training courses provided by her group, have already realized training of over twenty instructors and the swim program has now been introduced into the schools and has already affected over 350 individuals.
She noted that the Life Guard training which will provide international certification for the participants is the next necessary step going forward.
Bryce Bond, speaking on behalf of his brother noted that the course was being planned for over two and a half years and indicated that they cater for CPR training, first aid and Lifeguard training.
In terms of the schedule, he noted that the first day would be out of the water and will focus on First Aid and CPR training.
For the remainder of the week, they will be in the water at Yachtsman’s and the focus will be on entry into the water techniques; rescue moves and general Lifeguard training techniques.
Minister of Sports Hon. Eric Evelyn, who actually officially opened the training course, stated that the program was fully sanctioned and supported by his Ministry and pointed to the success that could be reaped when public and private entities collaborate on a program.
He asked the participants to learn as much as possible so that they can use the valuable skills in the case of real emergencies.