Friday, August 17 2012

THE EDITOR: In 1976 I was only 15 years old when I tuned into the radio to listen to the final of the men’s 100 metres dash in Montreal, Canada.

Only in the last few seconds of the race, the American commentator echoed the name of Hasely Crawford. Thirty-six years later, the boy from Toco, Keshorn Walcott has brought home our second Olympic gold medal. God permitting, I hope I would not have to wait another 36 years to experience such an illustrious feat.

No doubt the blue food and fish from Toco have fortified his blood to scale Olympic heights.

Walcott also exudes so much humility which is a sign of a true champion. Kudos must be extended to his parents for instilling this precious core value on the now famous son of the soil.

As the Prime Minister rolled out the basket of million dollar gifts to the youngster, he remained cool, calm and collected. I was present at the atrium of the Piarco International Airport on Monday — the scenes were simply indescribable as thousands of patriots from all races and religions enjoyed the spectacle. Sporting greatness is such a powerful unifying force especially in this country like ours that politicians need to pay close attention to this. Keshorn Walcott has a riveting story to tell and I hope he can relate his monumental achievement to the nation’s schoolchildren.

He is an exemplary role model in the making. The hundreds of uninspired and delinquent youths are crying out for persons like him to transform their empty lives.



Reza Abasali

El Socorro