The Tribune

WITH the postponed 2020 Olympic Games fast approaching, Cora Hepburn, the first female to be named as the Chef de Mission by the Bahamas Olympic Committee, said she’s eager about the trip to Tokyo, Japan, for the world’s greatest sporting spectacular from July 23 to August 8.

“I am certain that, like me, athletes and coaches around the world have conflicting feelings about Tokyo 2020,” Hepburn said. “ We are fierce competitors, who live for the challenges of sport. So, we are eager to get the Games on the way.

“At the same time, however, we worry about the risks associated with COVID-19, and we lament the restrictions that will somewhat prevent the familiar camaraderie we enjoy with fellow competitors from around the world.”

However, Hepburn said the risks and challenges of the present call us to rise to future greatness.

“Every great generation has overcome great odds. Some have weathered wars, famine, and plagues,” she said.

“Now this present pandemic is our great test. I pray that we will face it head-on and without flinching.”

As the first female Chef de Mission for Team Bahamas at the Olympics, Hepburn gave thanks to God and to the executive team of the BOC for giving her the opportunity to serve in such a prestigious capacity.

“It tells me that they have a level of confidence in my ability to manage the team,” said Hepburn, one of the country’s top former volleyball players.

“As for the athletes who have already qualified for the upcoming Olympics, as well as those still trying to secure their spot during this difficult time, I am aware of the mental and physical toll that comes with performing in the midst of a pandemic. “I truly appreciate your drive and determination, and I encourage you to allow that determination to cause you to realise your goal. The moment is now.

“I look forward to seeing each of our successful athletes rise to meet this historic occasion,” she added.

The BOC is the leader of sport and the Olympic movement in the Bahamas. The BOC is the sole authorised representative of The International Olympic Committee, Pan Am Sports, Commonwealth Games Federation, Centro and Caribe Sports, The Caribbean Associations of National Olympic Committees, and International University Sports Federation.