New running track surface for A.O. Shirley Recreation Ground en route. Photo: Cleave M. Farrington

The resurfacing material, supplied by Mondo USA, was purchased by the BVI Olympic Committee (BVIOC) with funds secured from PanAm Sports to repair the track which was damaged by Hurricanes Irma and Maria in September 2017.

Mondo USA was one of two agencies specialising in track surfaces engaged by PanAm Sports to assess the damage to the track at the A.O. Shirley Grounds.

The other agency was Beynon Sports and Mondo USA was awarded the contract after PanAm Sports reviewed the two agencies’ reports following their visits to the VI in January and after consulting with the BVIOC.

“PanAm Sports has been exceptionally responsive to the request from the BVIOC for assistance with the rebuild of sports in the Virgin Islands after Hurricanes Irma and Maria,” said Ephraim E. Penn, President, BVIOC.

Destruction 

Following the destruction of sports facilities in the VI caused by the 2017 storms, Mr Penn had communicated with various resources at Olympic level to request assistance with the rebuild of facilities and sports in the territory.

PanAm Sports subsequently set up a special fund to assist those territories affected by the hurricanes.

“I am particularly impressed and grateful for the support and encouragement that we have received and continue to receive from Mr Neven Ilic, President of PanAm Sports and his staff,” said Mr Penn.

“The appreciation from athletes and sporting bodies who are benefiting from their help is palpable and as the National Olympic Committee, we are excited to see the tangible and positive steps towards the reinstatement of sports in the Virgin Islands.” 

The BVIOC has also secured partial funding from PanAm Sports to assist with the repairs to the recreation ground facilities and perimeter walls which were destroyed during the hurricanes. The grounds and facilities are used by schools and sporting associations including Athletics, Rugby and Football.

The Recovery and Development Agency in consultation with the BVIOC, the BVI Athletic Association, the Ministry for Education, Culture and Sports and the Recreational Trust will oversee the rebuild of the A.O. Shirley Grounds including the bidding process and engagement of contractors for the installation and repairs to the facilities.