Bahamas News
Bahamian NGO Beneath the Waves to Attend UN Ocean Conference in Portugal
#TheBahamas, June 27, 2022 – Research scientists from the Bahamian and US-registered non-government organization Beneath the Waves will participate in the UN Ocean Conference in Lisbon, Portugal from June 27 – July 1 where thousands are expected to gather in an effort to find innovative solutions to the climatic and natural events impacting the health of the world’s oceans.
“The UN Ocean Conference, which the Government of The Bahamas and Beneath the Waves are attending, will bring together experts from around the globe at a time when there is growing concern about the warming of the waters and rising seas, a combination that makes the threat of stronger storms striking with less warning a new reality,” said Beneath the Waves CEO Dr. Austin Gallagher.
“We are pleased to offer findings from our long-term research that we have conducted in The Bahamas for more than a decade, specifically around the concept of blue carbon and nature-based solutions to climate change.”
Beneath the Waves is a specially-accredited NGO at the UN, and was pleased that multiple high-ranking Bahamian officials, experts, and advisors would be attending the conference as well.
Gallagher added: “During the conference, we will join The Bahamas in hosting a side event on blue carbon with other leaders from the Ministries from Indonesia and Australia. The Bahamas delegation will be demonstrating the strong leadership position of The Bahamas in this domain – now and moving forward.”
According to the UN’s conference site, the ocean nurtures 800% of life on the planet, generates 50% of the oxygen we breathe and absorbs 25% of all carbon dioxide emissions and provides food, jobs and energy.
Beneath the Waves has used sophisticated camera equipment to record data from the ocean floor and has utilized sharks as research partners to map seafloor and seagrass habitat throughout the islands.
In one expedition off Nassau, the team placed a 360-degree camera on a large tiger shark that was safely captured off a shallow bank in the Coral Harbour area, another first for marine science. The individual sampled autonomously for one hour with images covering four 90-degree quadrants (almost 25,000 square meters of seafloor). In that period of time, the camera recorded and captured 224 habitat assessments, uncovering lush seagrass meadows previously unknown. In the coming weeks and months, the group plans to share new and exciting results from its research.
Release: Beneath the Waves
Photo Caption: Dr. Austin Gallagher, pictured with large Caribbean reef shark in The Bahamas, will head the Bahamian and US-registered NGO Beneath the Waves contingent attending the United Nations Ocean Conference in Portugal this week. (Photo by Diego Camejo)
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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