Bahamas News
University of The Bahamas Press Release — Community Supports UBFIT Road to Wellness
#Bahamas, February 2, 2018 – Nassau – In collaboration with health and wellness partners, University of The Bahamas (UB) has launched a 12-week programme to encourage Bahamian citizens to commit to a lifestyle of regular exercise and healthy dietary habits. The initiative is critically important as The Bahamas ranks number one in the world with diabetes, number six globally with obesity and has one of the worst hypertension rates in the Americas.
The UBFIT Road to Wellness programme, in partnership with Elite Wellness Solutions and Weight Watchers Bahamas, serves as a clarion call for The Bahamas to turn the tide against chronic non-communicable diseases, while engaging the community in healthy lifestyle habits.
Health and wellness professionals, Ministry of Health officials and members of the public joined the UB community for the recent launch of the programme at the Harry C. Moore Library and Information Centre. Minister of Health Dr. Hon. Duane Sands lauded the initiative as something that could save Bahamian lives.
“In 2007, CARICOM Heads of State met and predicted that we would see, over the subsequent 20 years, a 300% increase in deaths from non-communicable diseases. Unfortunately, I don’t think we got that call and our people continue to drop like flies…I am pleased to see that this [initiative] is happening at many different levels and maybe if we keep this up, we can make a difference in the lives of the people of The Bahamas that we love so much,” he said.
UBFIT Road to Wellness provides Bahamians with easy access to the resources and professionals needed for proper exercise and nutrition. The UB community is participating in bi-weekly treks around the Oakes Field Campus track to prepare for the upcoming UBFIT race on 7th April. Employees have also joined the Weight Watchers at Work programme and the Culinary Arts and Tourism Studies (CATS) academic unit is giving periodic healthy cooking demonstrations. These are in addition to bi-monthly health and lifestyle lectures and high-impact workout sessions on Saturday mornings at UB’s Wellness Centre. Participants can also sign up for a lifestyle modification and behavioural change programme component.
UB’s Vice President of Operations Mr. Ronnie Stevenson fully supports the initiative, having himself made a renewed health commitment.
“At University of The Bahamas, we are innovators in research, education and now health and wellness. I too have joined the Road to Wellness…several months ago, I took a real look at myself and decided it was time to make some adjustments, lose some pounds and get more active. I even completed my first triathlon with Team UB,” he said.
UBFIT Organizing Committee Chair Kandice Eldon lauded the public-private partnerships formed through this new concept.
“The launch event brought together successful Bahamian health and wellness experts who shared vital information on lifestyle modification and behavioral change, sustainable nutrition, spiritual wellness and overcoming childhood obesity. We are so pleased to have the support of UB alumni and community partners, especially Ethan Quant, AA’04, CEO of Elite Wellness Solutions who proudly gave back to his alma mater through his resources and various networks to make the Road to Wellness a success,” she noted.
The UBFIT Road to Wellness is open to the public. All are welcome to join the UBFIT movement in preparation for the second annual UBFIT Fun Run Walk Bike Skate fundraising event in April. To register for the Road to Wellness or sponsor the upcoming UBFIT event, email ubfit@ub.edu.bs or call 302-4354.
By: University of The Bahamas
Photo captions:
Header: Health and Wellness experts presented at the Road to Wellness Launch held at the Harry C. Moore Library and Information Centre Auditorium.
First insert: Minister of Health Dr. The Hon. Duane Sands shared startling statistics on chronic non-communicable diseases in The Bahamas.
Second insert: CEO of Elite Fitness, UB Alumn Ethan Quant, AA’04.
Bahamas News
Get your laugh on, March On, family drama by Gea Pierre, debut this weekend in Turks and Caicos
This is the sixth edition of the relays and the fourth time that The Bahamas has hosted the event, which actually made its debut in The Bahamas in 2014.
President, World Athletics, Sabastian Coe said after three very successful editions from 2014 to 2017, the World Athletics Relays has quickly become one of the World Athletics vibrant competitions, developing a culture of fun and innovation that gives it a unique flavour.
He thanked the Bahamas Government, the local World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 committee and the Bahamian people for agreeing to host the relays. However, his main thanks were to the “world’s best sprinters” travelling from all the continents to compete in preparation for the road to Paris, France, in two months’ time.
During the opening ceremony, the athletes were given words of advice from Carl Lewis, one of only four Olympic athletes to have won nine Olympic gold medals, who is widely recognized as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
He said, “Keep it simple, do not try to do anything extra. Do what your coaches said. Leave on time, leave on time, leave on time.”
The athletes and crowds were treated to the sounds and sights of Junkanoo at the end of the opening ceremony. The Junkanoo performers stuck around for the two days of competitions, playing for the sprinters as they competed on the track.
Teams competed in the Women’s and men’s 4x100m, and the women’s men’s and mixed 4x400m. A total of 14 teams at the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 automatically qualified for places at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Both days of competition were important, as day two offered another chance for qualifications for those teams unsuccessful on day one.
Bahamians were made proud as the country set a new national record during the mixed 4x400m relays thanks to the efforts of 16-year-old Shania Adderley, a student of Tabernacle Baptist Academy.
The team came first in their heat on Sunday evening after not being able to gain a spot for the Paris Olympics on the first day of competition.
Other sprinters on the team included Alonzo Russell, as well as Olympic champions Steven Gardiner and Shaunae Miller-Uibo.
NASSAU, The Bahamas – During his remarks at the Opening Ceremony for the World Athletics Relays 2024, on May 4, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis welcomed the special guests, athletes, officials, and “all lovers of athletics from around the world” to the Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium here in the “vibrant heart” of Nassau, Bahamas.
“This weekend, the world’s finest athletes gather on our shores to embark on a journey that is not only about speed and strength but also about dreams and determination,” Prime Minister Davis said. “From the serene beauty of our islands to the historic grandeur of Paris, this event marks a crucial path to the Olympic Games in Paris 2024.”
He added: “Here in The Bahamas, we are no strangers to world-class athletics or the warmth and exuberance that such international gatherings bring. It is a distinct honor to once again welcome the World Athletics Relays back to our islands. This event holds a special place in our hearts, symbolizing a bridge between nations brought together by the universal language of sport.”
Prime Minister Davis noted that that year’s theme, “Paradise to Paris,” captured the essence of that journey.
“It is here, amidst the splendor of our sun-kissed beaches and the rhythmic sway of our palms that the chase towards Olympic glory begins anew,” he stated. “We are thrilled to offer a backdrop of unparalleled beauty, where every sprint, every baton pass, and every victory lap is set against the picture-perfect canvas of our islands.”
He added: “To our athletes, I say this: as you stand on the precipice of your dreams, ready to catapult yourself into the annals of history, know that you are part of a legacy of excellence and determination. This weekend, you are not only competitors but also ambassadors of your countries and the spirit of sport. We are especially proud of Team Bahamas, who carry the weight of their performance and the hopes and pride of our nation. You embody the spirit of The Bahamian people, and we are behind you every step of the way.”
Prime Minister said that to the international visitors, he extended “the warmest Bahamian welcome”.
“Over the next few days, as you revel in the thrill of competition, take a moment to bask in the beauty of our island,” he stated. “Discover why we proudly say, “It’s Better in The Bahamas.” Whether it’s the hospitality of our people, the tranquility of our waters, or the rhythm of our culture, you are in for an experience that captures the heart and rejuvenates the soul.”
“Let us celebrate the unity and friendship that sports foster, cheering every athlete and savoring the spectacle of human potential at its best,” Prime Minister Davis added. “I hope the races are swift, the results are inspiring, and the memories are lasting.
“Welcome to The Bahamas, the paradise where champions chase their dreams to Paris. As your host, it is my immense pleasure to declare the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 2024 officially open. Let the games begin.”
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