President of SVGOC delivers Olympic Day message

President: Stephen Joachim, General Secretary: Keith Joseph, Treasurer: Jacintha Ballantyne

President of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Olympic Committee, Stephen Joachim has highlighted the positive impact of sports on individuals in a message to mark Olympics Day which is celebrated on June, 23 each year.

The message states that: On June 23rd, 1894, a small group of individuals, led by Baron Pierre de Coubertin, met at the Sorbonne in Paris, France, and agreed to establish the International Olympic Committee (IOC). This led to the first

of the modern Olympic Games in Athens, Greece, in 1896. The first Olympic Day was introduced in 1948 and is intended to commemorate the day of the meeting in 1894 that set the modern Olympic Games and the Olympic Movement in motion. The day itself is, however, far more than a celebration of sports. It is a celebration of Olympism.

Olympism is defined by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as “a philosophy of life, exalting and combining in a balanced whole the qualities of body, will and mind. Blending sport with culture and education, Olympism seeks to create a way of life based on the joy of effort, the educational value of good example, social responsibility and respect for universal fundamental ethical principles.” Sport is seen as a positive force at the service of mankind. Sport is a unifying good which can help to overcome political, religious and other differences in society.

There are three values at the heart of Olympism. These are excellence, respect and friendship. These values are the foundation upon which the Olympic Movement is built. Activities which promote sport, culture and education are likely to help build a better world. The values at the heart of Olympism should be reflected upon, especially on June 23, Olympic Day.

Excellence refers to giving of one’s best. This is applicable to sport and to all facets of life. It is about doing one’s best, every time, everywhere. It requires determination and effort to be the best you can be.

It is a measure against oneself and not others. It is not about winning but about doing your best. It is about continuously striving to improve oneself.

Respect is a basic and essential principle that should represent the foundation upon which we consistently determine how we lead our lives. This includes respect for our bodies, respect for rules and regulations, respect for each other (even when we disagree) and respect for the environment that is essential to sustaining life. It is the foundation of fair play that we must all strive for.

Friendship encourages better relationships and understanding between peoples of all nations, races,classes, religion, political persuasions and statuses. Friendship can overcome economic, political, religious, racial, gender and all differences. Friendship is the enemy of hatred and division.

Olympism and the values underpinning it are a guide to a society and a better world. In SVG, let’s all try to strive for excellence, let us show respect for each other and let’s build friendships.

Sports can lead the way!

Stephen Joachim
President SVG Olympic Committee