Several weeks ago, the Bahamas Boxing Commission (BBC) staged a medical and officiating seminar.
The event was in keeping with the commission's focus on upgrading the understanding of those within the professional boxing arena of the rules that relate to the sport, particularly from the medical and officiating perspectives. The process should be more positive now. Boxers, trainers, managers and promoters who were present are more knowledgeable about what will be expected by the commission.
Perhaps the most significant development though, was the position taken by the commission to get fully on board the anti-doping program in the nation. The view among the commissioners was solidified following a presentation made at the seminar by Dr. Patrick Roberts. An esteemed physician, also with a noted interest in sports medicine, Dr. Roberts afforded his audience a wealth of knowledge and suggestions related to the ongoing battle against doping in sports.
Dr. Roberts was the first appointed Chairman of the Bahamas Anti-Doping Commission (BADC). Unfortunately, the central administration at the time never got around to pushing the relevant act through parliament. Nevertheless, Dr. Roberts got a big start in anticipation that the commission would be legislated. He applied himself in an intense manner to the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the World Anti-Doping Code (WADC). In fact, his contribution had much to do with the Perry Christie government signing on to the code in 2003.
Dr. Roberts was emphatic in explaining the emergence of a world organization to lead the anti-doping fight and the many temptations that cause top athletes to opt for enhancing products that give an unfair advantage. He spoke also about countries reported to have, as a culture, enhancement programs. There was a lot of interest among those present at the seminar and there was a big question.
Will the Bahamas Boxing Commission be serious about conducting tests for doping? Dr. Roberts advocates that the commission should. There was general agreement that the commission's Medical Committee will expand to include testing for illegal stimulants. The next step will most likely be making official representation to the Bahamas Anti-Doping Commission. The BADC just completed, in January, a training seminar for Doping Control Officers. Some 20-plus trainees qualified to join the three in the country who were previously certified.
The path is thus clear for the commission and its Medical Committee Chairman Dr. Munir Rashad. Dr. Roberts indicated that he is prepared to help the commission in the process.
To respond to this column, kindly contact Fred Sturrup at fredericksturrup@gmail.com.

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