Athletes who represented Barbados at this year’s Hunstman World Senior Games in Utah returned home to a special welcome yesterday.

The team arrived at the Grantley Adams International Airport around 1:15 p.m. where they were greeted by new Minister of Social Care, Constituency Empowerment and Community Development, Steve Blackett, Permanent Secretary, Sonja Welch and officials of the Ministry.

The athletes performed well at the games amid challenging circumstances, bringing home 70 medals from 83 events. They won 23 gold, 28 silver and 19 bronze.

Minister Blackett, in congratulating the team, described the feat as "commendable", saying their efforts were in keeping with his Ministry’s policy of promoting an active lifestyle for the elderly.

"Your representation at this year’s games is indicative of our ministry’s commitment to the policy of active aging, as we endeavour to reduce the incidence of chronic non-communicable diseases among the elderly, through the adoption of healthy and active lifestyles," he stated.

Mr. Blackett said Barbados was proud of their achievements and urged them to continue to train hard in preparation for next year’s event.

Former Social Care Minister and the new Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, Chris Sinckler, who also returned to the island yesterday following an assignment overseas, hailed their performances as "fantastic" and offered government’s continued support to the senior athletes. askeete@barbados.gov.bb

Author: Andr?? Skeete

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