The Tribune

By RENALDO DORSETT

Sports Reporter

rdorsett@tribunemedia.net

Billed as the ultimate track and field showdown of the year, Bahamians will get an opportunity to witness their Olympians compete months in advance as the Bahamas' athletics team begins to take shape.

The BTC-Scotiabank Olympic Trials is all set for June 22-23 at the Thomas A Robinson Stadium.

The Bahamas' elite senior athletes face off against top collegiate athletes as they vie for a spot on Team Bahamas for the 2012 London Olympics.

Competition begins at 5:50pm Friday and 6pm on the final day of competition.

Just over a month remains before the Olympic Games and the event will also serve as a qualifier for the NACAC Under-23 Championships, which will take place the second week in July in Mexico.

"Scotiabank's partnership with the BAAA spans many years and we believe this has allowed us to make a tangible positive difference in the lives of many young Bahamians. We believe that through our sponsorship of the Scotiabank High School Track and Field Nationals over the last three years and now these Olympic Trials, we are indeed working to 'Inspire a Generation'", said Kevin Teslyk, managing director of Scotiabank (Bahamas).

"On behalf of Scotiabank, we encourage all Bahamians to show their support for our elite athletes at the BTC-Scotiabank Olympic Trials. To our athletes, we wish you all safe competition and the very best of luck. Discover what's possible."

BTC has committed $100.000 to the BAAA in sponsorship to assist with four major sporting events. The CARIFTA Track and Field Championships was the first and benefited from a $25,000 donation.

"BTC is committed to the development of our young people through sports," said Marlon Johnson, vice president of Brand & Communications at BTC. "Our sponsorship speaks to the level of our commitment."

An athlete who sets a new national record and is not subjected to the NCAA rules will win $2,000 for their feat.

BAAA executives noted that the Olympic team is the responsibility of the Bahamas Olympic Committee who alone can ratify the team. The BAAA can only recommend the team based upon their performances.

The BAAA alone has responsibility for the World Junior team and the NACAC Under-23 Team.

"We encourage Bahamians from all walks of life to attend and encourage our athletes to perform well as they march on to London, Mexico, and Barcelona," said BAAA public relations officer Alpheus Finlayson.

"They will be thrilled and pleased and will never forget the excitement and great performances for years to come."

"Our corporate sponsors continue to do a tremendous job in sponsoring our athletes and the BAAA," according to BAAA president Mike Sands.

"We are extremely grateful for all that they have done and continue to do for the development of sports in the Bahamas."