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Even though the Trinidad and Tobago Olympic Committee (TTOC) is disappointed by the recent decision taken by the Pan American Sport Organization (PASO) headed by Mario Vasquez Rana to not give official PASO sanction to the inaugural Caribbean Games.The TTOC is confident that the Games will be successful.
According to TTOC Officials the official reasons given by PASO does not stand exacting scrutiny.As there are a number of examples of support and patronage for other regional and sub-regional games.
The request to PASO did not include any request for financial assistance.
Describing the PASO decision as "regretful and unexpected" .Brian Lewis,the TTOC secretary general remains confident that the inaugural Caribbean Games which will be held in Port.Of.Spain,Trinidad from 12 -19 July will be a tremendous success as PASO's blessings is not necessary .
According to Lewis the Caribbean region's positive contribution to the International Olympic Committee ,Olympism ,the Olympic Games and the Olympic Movement is undeniable.
"The Caribbean Olympic Movement is resolute and will progress the staging of the Caribbean Games undeterred and with the indomitable will,creativity , imagination and resilience that has served the region through out its well documented social,geo political and economic history.The disappointment felt by the TTOC ,in particular, has only served to strengthen its commitment to the Olympic Values of striving for excellence,friendship and respect" said Lewis
Refusing to speculate as to any unstated reasons for the inexplicable turn of events the TTOC secretary general, however, cautioned against any action that maybe perceived as a snub or taking the Caribbean for granted.
"The Caribbean has in the past proven to be extremely supportive of many of the iniatives undertaken by PASO and the PASO membership.This decision is not reflective of any appreciation and respect for the contribution that the Caribbean has made"
"In sport politics there are always people who will prefer to see the Caribbean divided but the formation of the Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC) has brought a level of consenus and co operation among the Caribbean that is unprecedented.The Caribbean Games is a symbol of that unity".
The Pan American Sports Organisation (acronym: PASO; represents the 42 National Olympic Committees of the American continent. It is the Continental Association for the Americas.
It is affiliated to/with the International Olympic Committee and its affiliated bodies, such as ANOC: the Association of National Olympic Committees.
PASO is the body that organizes/oversees the Pan American Games.
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