Speaking at the launching ceremony SOS Gomez said the idea behind setting up such a committee is meant to bring back Athletics to its good glories and also to make the country excel in all areas of sports.
He stated
that the task of the National Organizing Committee would be to organize a
National Zonal Athletics championship this year which according to him will
target Athletes across the country and also to prepare Gambian Athletes both
for 2010 Commonwealth games, All African games by 2011 and the Olympics games
in
He pointed out that it is among the mandate of the committee to scout talents in the villages, schools and the security forces in the country. He noted that his Department of State will give the NOC all the support it needs.
Secy Gomez urged the committee to work on how to improve on the timing, distance and height of Athletes
He disclosed that currently his department is working on a location of a new stadium.
He thanked President Jammeh for the support he gives to sports.
SOS Gomez challenged the general public to support the committee in its work.
For his Part, the Chairman of the National Sports Council, Omar Sallah, said the formation of the committee is long overdue, adding that a lot is expected from them in order to put athletics to another level. He called on the members to be committed towards the upliftment of athletics both at national, regional and international levels.
Mr Fred L. Evans president of the Gambia Athletics Association assured the NOC that his association will do everything possible to make so that the committee achieve its objectives.
Other speakers at the occasion included Malang Jasseh, Director Youth and Sports, Modou Gaye Deputy inspector General of Police and Alex Dacosta.