Participation in regional, continental or Olympic sports competitions constitutes a significant challenge for the Republic of Haiti. This challenge goes far beyond the sporting framework and requires meticulous administrative orchestration. Searching for funding, registering athletes, coaches and officials, and complex travel planning are exacerbated by the current situation in Haiti.
Recent disruptions at Toussaint Louverture International Airport have cast doubt on its ability to reopen, further complicating international travel from Haiti. As the Paris 2024 Olympic Games approach, which will be held from July 26 to August 11, it becomes imperative to develop effective strategies to ensure the movement of Haitian athletes to Paris. Tuesday around 10 a.m., Mr. Patrick Blanchet, secretary general of the Haitian Olympic Committee, was received at the office of His Excellency Marco Penin Toledano, the Spanish Ambassador to Haiti, for a crucial meeting.
The primary objective of this meeting was to strengthen the sports cooperation agreements between Spain and Haiti, particularly with a view to the optimal preparation of Haitian athletes for the Paris Olympics. Mr. Blanchet highlighted the need to secure a viable route for the transfer of Haitian athletes to Paris, via Spain.
“To ensure the participation of our athletes in the next Olympic Games, we are adopting a strategy similar to that put in place for the Pan American Games, where similar steps were taken,” insisted Mr Blanchet.
“We are looking to establish a route to Paris via Spain, and are also discussing potential partnerships to improve the preparation conditions for our athletes, thereby maximizing their performance,” he continued.
This initiative is a manifestation of the Haitian Olympic Committee’s unwavering commitment to overcoming logistical obstacles and facilitating the presence of its athletes at the
Paris 2024 Olympic Games. By consolidating its ties with Spain and forging strategic alliances for athletic preparation, Haiti is demonstrating its determination to promote its sporting heritage on the world stage and improve the prospects of
success of its athletes.
Bureau communication COH
