The signature social/sports event in the land is on the upsurge. The quantity increase and the major influential character of the event must be considered impressive. Remember, readers, this running extravaganza is just into its fifth year. Reference is to the Sunshine Insurance Marathon Bahamas.
Without a doubt, the Sunshine Insurance Marathon Bahamas appears to have the kind of foundation that will enable it to last the distance throughout the coming years and decades as a Bahamian highlight. It is important The Bahamas starts looking at mega events that are the products of Bahamian architects in a more meaningful way.
It is understood why the country would back an inaugural competition like the International Association of Athletic Federations (IAAF) World Relays, scheduled for May 24-25 next year. I support the government's financial step forward on behalf of the Bahamian taxpayers.
There is some concern though that the $3.5 million announced initially, will spiral into perhaps three times that figure and present a burdensome challenge for taxpayers. Nevertheless, once the government plans to be transparent regarding the funding for the IAAF world relays, then the expensive host role would be generally accepted, I think. I find it staggering though, especially when I think of the Sunshine Insurance Marathon Bahamas, that there is this readiness in the government to be so far-reaching financially, in favor of the IAAF relays. Remember also, there is a national commitment for the 2015 IAAF world relays as well.
Actually, when examined in detail, I'm of the view that the Sunshine Insurance Marathon Bahamas, a totally local product, is worthy of top consideration regarding funding from the government. It's a safe bet that the marathon will bring in more tourist numbers than the IAAF relays.
The public has been told nothing of the television rights for the relays and just how much, or if any, will come to this country. How much of the financial outlay the government will recoup has not been told to the public. So, agreed, the potential of the IAAF relays is noteworthy. The pure facts on the rumored additional costs ought to be disclosed, so should, any projected revenue.
Purely on the surface however, the Sunshine Insurance Marathon Bahamas is indeed a "big time" happening, just as it has been concluded the IAAF relays competition is. I make this comparison just to emphasize just how valuable the marathon could be, directly to the Bahamian sports industry and the country in general.
It's our event. It's a mega entity. The government should start looking at the Sunshine Insurance Marathon Bahamas in that light.
o To respond to this column, kindly contact Fred Sturrup at sturrup1504@gmail.com.
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