Labban joins the debate

Former Technical Director of Team Athletics SVG Gideon Labban has added his voice in the ongoing debate about the placement of a Track and Field facility at the proposed site of the National Stadium at Diamond.{{more}}

Labban, who is residing in the USA, shared his views with SEARCHLIGHT via e-mail.

Labban wrote: “The Diamond site is located on the South Eastern side of the Island and somewhat close to the coast line, which is exposed to south east trade winds (troublesome winds which can and will affect performances etc); sea salt effects will take its toll on the facility over time.

“It is located within the Industrial estate; and it is also in very close proximity to the Informal land settlements. This site does not offer the best surroundings,” Labban reasoned.

Labban also stated that he prefers the Sion Hill location over the Diamond site.

“Sion Hill, although not an ideal location, is still better than Diamond and can be used for local track and field competitions, schools sports etc, and national soccer competitions,” Labban added.

When it comes to the construction of a national stadium, Labban, in his opinion, also rules out Diamond.

“The proposed area for the Stadium at Diamond, in my view is not the best ideal location. Travelling to many different countries in the last 24 years or so, I have seen many such facilities, from the very simple Mondo Track, fenced, with one covered stand and bleachers; and there are the Mega Stadiums,” Labban recalled.

Instead, Labban is proposing an alternative site.

“The Pembroke area in the vicinity of the old Bernard Garage, in the area behind the new Greaves Supermarket is a better option for the proposed Stadium,” Labban wrote.

“This location on the Leeward side, the winds are much less troublesome, and there is probably zero salt effect on any facility built there. The area is very calm and the aesthetics have much more appeal than Diamond does. Added to that, the newly built Buccament Bay Resort, and now the under construction Greaves Supermarket are in ideal locations for accommodating and serving teams for competition and training,” Labban reasoned.

“The facility can be promoted as a training venue for professional teams and athletes who sometimes prefer a secluded facility during their Winter months etc. It will be probably one of the first facilities in the Caribbean that could offer such a package, boosting sports tourism and revenue in St Vincent and the Grenadines,” Labban assessed.

Last month, Michael Tovar of track supplier Mondo was here and held talks with officials with the possibility of erecting a synthetic track for St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Minister of Tourism, Sports and Culture Ces Mc Kie stated then that the realization of a synthetic track at Diamond would form phase one of the National Stadium Project.(RT)