Bahamas News
Bahamasair Christmas Day Flyout
#Nassau, December 28, 2018 – Bahamas – The 2018 Bahamasair Christmas Day Fly-Out demonstrated that The Spirit of Christmas was flowing at the national flag carrier, as the event brought joy to the hearts of many deserving young people.
The national flag carrier Bahamasair in conjunction with the Ministry of Social Services & Urban Development on Christmas Day, continued the tradition of spreading cheer to those less fortunate by flying some 33 children to 
Exuma for a one-day getaway. The annual event is a highly anticipated one for many Bahamasair staffers is considered the perfect way to give back to the community through spreading the joy of Christmas with children of the various Government run homes on New Providence.
The event is one that Bahamasair’s Chairman Tommy Turnquest says was fully supported by airline’s Board of Directors, management and staff and serves as an example of the company’s commitment to good corporate citizenship. The Chairman further noted that Christmas is a special for the national flag carrier and despite being very busy with passengers gives the company a chance to pause and really give back to the less fortunate in society. Mr. Turnquest extended his thanks to the hardworking men and women at Bahamasair who really go above and beyond to put on the annual event that continues to provide such a positive experience for the children.
Minister of Social Service & Urban Development the Hon. Frankie Campbell who was present at the sendoff, decided to join the children on the trip, to share in the experience first-hand. Minister Campbell in noting his appreciation to the airline stated that, “this is a wonderful gesture from Bahamasair, where our children can realize that being in a home does not limit them from experiencing what the Spirit of Christmas is all about.” Upon arrival in Exuma, the group was treated to a hearty down-home breakfast, followed by an island tour that included the Pompey Monument and a visit the settlement of Barraterre. The day culminated with a Christmas Day extravaganza at the home of Mr. Jeremy Mutton, General Manager of Sandals Emerald Bay Exuma. The children were treated to an afternoon of fun with exciting games, food and even a visit from Santa Clause who presented each child a gift.
The participants also had the opportunity hear words of encouragement from two of Exuma’s more recent success stories in the person of Samson Colebroke, Purdue University athlete and Bahamas national team sprinter and Hanzel Rolle nationally recognized youth chef who has represented the Bahamas at numerous international cooking competitions. The young men shared their stories of success with the children and encouraged them to, never give up.
The Minister shared his experience during the trip with an eight-year old female, who said that after enjoying the hospitality and beauty of the island, she now has a desire to live in Exuma. This the Minister noted, spoke volumes, and convinced him that the Spirit of Christmas was alive and well. The Minister further noted that, “The children experienced firsthand what it is to be cared for and given a reason to say Thank You, and in the end I’m looking forward to next year. I wish Christmas would come early.” In wrapping up Minister Campbell stated that, “I am impressed with the effort and time put into organizing this fly-out, and grateful on behalf of the Children who can’t speak for themselves. There is hope that we will breed a group of productive citizens in this lot.” By all accounts, the event was a success, especially when looking at the smiles on the faces of the children.
The event was made possible through the collective efforts of a number of persons more specifically the team from Bahamasair led by Ms. Sabrina Wright (Corporate Secretary/Senior Manager), Mr. Tracy Cooper, Managing Director (Bahamasair), Mr. Selvin Basden, (Bahamasair). Officials from the Department of Social Service led by Mrs. Lillian Quant (Director of Social Services), in addition to the team from Sandals Emerald Bay Exuma led by Mr. Jeremy Mutton (General Manager), The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism (Exuma) led by Emmit Saunders (Island Manager), Rubis (aircraft fuel), CP Morley Enterprises, Exuma Foundation, Exuma Chamber of Commerce, Aliv, Kendra Knowles, Don Smith, Exuma Tourism Office, Dunkin Donuts (Nassau). Special thanks to the Management & Staff of Kermit’s Airport Lounge. Without the efforts of these persons, none of this would have been possible.
VOLUNTEERS: Stuart & Allyson Kelly Wayne Curtis, Lynden Curtis, Whitney Curtis, Kazmyn Smith, Ricardo Munroe, Shallini Dame, Taliyah McKenzie, Tamara Robinson, Mya Robinson, Inaru Dames, Christopher Kettel.
Release: Bahamasair
Photo Captions:
Insert: The Hon. Frankie Campbell, Minister of Social Services and Bahamasair Chairman, the Hon. Tommy Turnquest along with members of the Bahamasair and Social Services teams.
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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