No easy planning for CARIFTA, Olympics

Many logistics need to be considered as it relates to hosting both the CARIFTA Games

in Bermuda and the Tokyo Olympics in Japan, says Olympian Freida Nicholls.

While unable to say much as it relates to what is happening behind the scenes, Nicholls stressed that there needs to have serious protocols in place ahead of the Games. She said this was the case, particularly with the CARIFTA Games which was moved from its traditional Easter Weekend in April to July.

“It is not just hosting it.  There are a multiplicity of issues that have to be addressed. For instance, the opening ceremony. That has to go through the window most likely and maybe do something virtually.

“There would have to be serious protocols in place because throughout the Caribbean there are lots of daily reports of cases [Covid-19]. So, they would need to have a quarantine plan. This is if Bermuda decides to host. That plan would have to include the athletes, coaches and officials. That is going to be a major cost for somebody,” Nicholls said.

“We need to look at another important aspect of all this. What is the mental state of the athletes that are going to compete? Are they coping with this seesaw because that is what it is. It is a very iffy situation and there would have to be appropriate measures in place. We need to have somebody dealing with the psychological impact of all of this,” Nicholls added.

Interestingly, the organisers for CARIFTA and Tokyo Olympics up to this point remain committed to hosting the respective games. Even though the world continues to grapple and adjust to the Coronavirus pandemic.

A two-time Olympian, Nicholls served on the World Olympians Association board from 2015 to 2020. She said similarly when it comes to the Olympics the logistics must be considered.

The former sprint queen also noted that serious questions must be considered and put forward as those involved go forward.

“I am just listening to the feedback because there are several areas that are being put on the table. But there are a lot of considerations. This speaks to so many areas in terms of life after COVID as well.

“Are you going to require that people coming to your country must be vaccinated? How does that fit in with people who do not plan to take a vaccination?

“I am hearing the European Union talking about a vaccination passport. So, how does that fit in for people who for whatever reason do not want to take a vaccination or do not plan to take a vaccination,” Nicholls said.

morissalindsay@barbadostoday.bb