SPORTS MINISTRY INVESTS MILLIONS TO UPGRADE NATIONAL ATHLETIC FACILITIES 

The Ministry of Sports is making significant investments to revitalize the island’s premier cricket and track and field facilities. These upgrades aim to enhance the country’s ability to host international sporting events and improve training conditions for local athletes.

During a session of the National Assembly on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, Minister of Sports, the Honourable Samal Duggins, emphasized the need for such investments, pointing out the poor condition of many national and community facilities when he assumed office in 2022.

“When I assumed office in 2022, many of the national and community sporting facilities were in disrepair, having received little to no investment for years,” Minister Duggins told the Assembly.

The Kim Collins Athletic Stadium has been undergoing a comprehensive upgrade since July 2023. The project, estimated at $1.9 million, includes a complete overhaul of the stadium’s electrical and plumbing systems, repainting its steel frame, replacing spectator seating, and replacing cracked drywall with durable concrete walls.Additionally, a new athletic track has been procured at a cost of $3.8 million. However, this figure does not include the civil works required to prepare the site before installation.

At Warner Park Cricket Stadium, upgrades have focused on modernizing its lighting system and replacing the outdated jumbotron. According to Minister Duggins, the previous administration was warned about the obsolescence of the old screen but failed to act. The new screen, which costs more than $730,000, will ensure Warner Park remains competitive as a cricket venue.

Minister Duggins reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing sports facilities nationwide.

“The government will continue to make the necessary investments to upgrade other facilities around the country to ensure that athletes can train and communities can enjoy sports competitions in a safe and comfortable environment,” He said.

These investments are part of a broader strategy to boost sports development, promote community engagement, and position St. Kitts and Nevis as a prime destination for international sporting events.-30-