Curt Hollingsworth's message to the electoral board within the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations (BAAA) is clear and simple - develop a stronger foundation in athletics so all Bahamians can benefit. As it is outlined in his campaign manifesto, Hollingsworth, former president of the BAAA and a candidate for the presidency in the upcoming BAAA elections, promises to create a more productive BAAA which caters to all persons that fall under the governing body's umbrella. Transparency, accountability and reliability are just three of the words Hollingsworth uses when articulating his agenda. He will continue to push as election day quickly approaches. The BAAA election will be held on Saturday, 9 a.m. at the J. Whitney Building.
"There is a simple but clear message we are bringing to the voters and all those who are interested in the sport of track and field in the country," he said. "It is imperative that we develop a stronger culture in athletics. In so doing, it will include persons of all ages throughout the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. We want to continue to encourage the athletes to compete and for persons to attend track meets. All of this will be done while maintaining a positive image throughout the communities. This team, led by me, will be committed to restoring and maintaining a positive image.
He continued, "The focus is to increase overall participation and membership, to ensure and provide coaches with the opportunities to continue their education in the sport, and to enhance the attractiveness of competing and investing in our athletes. There is a need for more loyality, from the executives trickling down to the athletes, coaches and officials." It is Hollingsworth's plan to introduce several committees and establish organizations that will propel the sport forward. One of the biggest programs on his agenda if he is elected is the implementation of an advisory committee. This will give coaches and athletes a voice.
Right now, Hollingsworth believes that the voice, if any, is very quiet. "The introduction of an advisory committee, which will be comprised of the electoral members, is the key and something we desperately need moving forward," he stated. "It is my opinion that our council members have been underutilized, or not used at all. Therefore we need to play a more proactive role in athletics itself. We want to introduce an athletics commission so that an athlete's voice can be heard. I n this commission, as it is done at the high level in the IAAF, athletes can voice their displeasures in a well-mannered and orderly fashion. This is done on a regular basis on the international level, and athletes like this means of expression.
It will also make sure that their views and concerns are represented well. He added that a fundraising committee, a coaches commission and a disciplinary committee will also be established, noting that there is a need for an educational committee, headed by educators. A medical and anti-doping committee will also be looked. "These are essential parts of the organization," he said. Hollingsworth took over as the interim president in 2008 and threw his name into the hat in 2009. He was unsuccessful in his bid and Mike Sands was returned as president. He said he did support some of the ideas and goals that the Sands administration introduced and will support whoever wins on Saturday.
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