The International Olympic Committee (IOC) member was accompanied by some members of the GNOC Board.
Madame Allen used the occasion to congratulate the athletes as well as encourage those yet to perform.
She also handed out Olympic Participation Pins to the athletes that were present.
The president reconfirmed her committee's continued support to athletes’ development and urged National Associations to plan ahead of events and work closely with the NOC.
Ms Allen thanked the government of The Gambia for its support and collaboration.
She stated that when an athlete loses a competition, the athlete feels it worse than any other person, noting that all they need is at that moment is encouragement because no one knows what is going on in their mind at that moment.
She observed that it is difficult for one to participate in their first Olympics and win a medal, noting that those who have won medals have repeated participated in Olympic Games and received continuous financial support.
She therefore encouraged Gambian athletes not to be discouraged and continue working hard. She further appreciated the athletes for their commitment and services to the country.
“The athletes are the Games,” she stated while calling for the collaboration of all stakeholders to ensure the needs of athletes are met on a continuous basis.
“When you motivate the athlete, he/she can jump mountains. But when you demotivate the athlete, nothing comes from it,” she further said, while also calling on sponsors to chip in.
She told athletes that qualifying for the Olympic Games alone is a win for them.
