I interacted with a goodly number of persons on Saturday past, before and during the official opening of the Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium. Pertaining to what went on at the various stages of the celebration that honored famed track sprinter and sports ambassador Tommy Robinson, I heard no negative comments.
A general feeling of pride was evident. It was a joyful scene as Bahamians in great numbers greeted each other and visiting guests. Indeed for one special moment in time, Bahamians like they haven't done in a very long time, collectively, participated in a totally refreshing atmosphere.
Governor General Sir Arthur Foulkes, Ambassador Hu Shan of the People's Republic of China, International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) executive Chuck Blazer and Bahamian international recording star Johnny Kemp added to the really nice flavor of the activities on the milestone occasion. Some significant contributors to national sports development in this country were not there in person, but on the two big screens, tribute was paid to them.
Was it a learning experiencing? Yes, it was.
The honoree did not speak. That was odd. I have never been present at or heard of an event in which the chief person being honored did not speak or have someone give remarks on his/her behalf. Robinson seemed quite capable enough when he was introduced. He came out near the platform and waved with energy for a few moments to the crowd. He was cheered lustily.
Was he given the option to speak or not is the big question. If he was not, then that's a story for another time. Then, there was the list of persons who got special notification. That list should have been inclusive of some others.
There were a few hiccups in the coordinating of the seating for the sporting executives. What was noteworthy and very much appreciated though, was that a lot of effort went into sorting that situation out. A dedicated group of volunteers were on hand and they created a comfort zone.
All-in-all the ceremony gets a "good" rating from me. It flowed. The fanfare was exceptional. Cleophas Adderley, Ronald Simms and others handled a tall organizing task handily. The police and defence force bands were magnificent. The one-lap march of the representatives of sporting bodies was a fitting segment that showcased the key players in the sports development process of our nation.
The entertainment by local artists who performed secular and gospel music, the dance and junkanoo routines, historic video clips and huge posters of the life and times of Robinson amounted to a combined touch of class. I have to point out also that the politicians skipped the rhetoric. Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Charles Maynard was solid and on point as he spoke to the quality of Bahamian sports.
Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham was gracious and stately. He gave credit to the Perry Christie government that started the new national stadium process with the People's Republic of China. He had warm praises for Robinson.
It was an elegant showing on the part of PM Ingraham. High level political campaigning is going on in the country presently as the day of the general election nears. Ingraham's presentation on Saturday was one that even his most ardent detractors would be hard-pressed to criticize legitimately.
The presence of Blazer was important. The game of soccer might end up being the greatest marketing item for the Sports Authority, given its popularity around the world. As the guest of Bahamas Football Association (BFA) President Anton Sealey, Blazer cemented the high priority status of soccer for the national stadium. He is a FIFA executive committee member and also the Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) secretary general.
Blazer coming in for the opening could be a good indication that it is soccer that will christen the stadium with a big-time sports event in the not too distant future.
To respond to this column, kindly contact Fred Sturrup at fredericksturrup@gmail.com.

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