The St. Lucia Olympic Committee (SLOC) Inc. reaffirmed its commitment to the advancement of local sport on Saturday, April 5, 2025, when it disbursed nearly EC$70,000 in funding to support the efforts of several national sporting associations. The handover ceremony, held at Olympic House in La Clery, marked a significant investment in the continued development of St Lucia’s athletes and their participation in key international competitions.
Among the recipients was the St. Lucia Athletics Association (SLAA), which received EC$28,000 to assist with preparations and travel for the country’s participation in the 2025 CARIFTA Games, set for later this month in Trinidad and Tobago. SLAA President Dora Henry was on hand to accept the cheque, expressing appreciation for the support ahead of one of the most important youth track and field competitions in the region.
Also receiving support was the St. Lucia National Table Tennis Association, which was granted EC$6,823.65 to help cover airfare for the national junior team heading to the Caribbean U15 and U19 Table Tennis Tournament in Barbados. Head Coach Chris Wells accepted the funding, which will allow young players to gain valuable international exposure.
The St. Lucia Cycling Association (SLCA) received a reimbursement of EC$4,924.24, with SLCA President Cyril Mangal accepting the cheque on behalf of the association. Meanwhile, the St. Lucia Basketball Federation (SLBF) was awarded EC$5,000 to facilitate their participation in an upcoming FIBA Congress. SLBF President Glen Guiste was present at the ceremony to receive the funds, which are expected to support the Federation’s continued engagement with the global basketball community.
Additional support came in the form of EC$5,000 to the St. Lucia Tennis Association, earmarked for airfare to a regional meeting. Representing the SLTA was Scyla Murray, who expressed gratitude for the timely assistance.
The St. Lucia Volleyball Association was also slated to receive EC$20,000 to fund the ongoing coaching stint of Coach Sabatini on-island, though no representative was present at Saturday’s ceremony to collect the cheque.
In total, SLOC Inc. disbursed EC$69,747.89 during the ceremony, a clear demonstration of the organization’s continued mission to provide tangible support to its member associations.
Saturday’s handover reflects more than just financial investment — it’s a statement of belief in the potential of St Lucia’s athletes and a step toward ensuring they are equipped to compete and thrive on the regional and international stage.