In her first week as governor, Jane Owen has been busy getting to know her new home and its people, including attending a CARIFTA team appreciation reception on Tuesday, 25 April.
She was there to show her support for the 72 athletes who represented Cayman in the regional aquatic and athletic competitions earlier this month.
“I’m a big believer in the power of sport,” Owen told the Compass. “I think it’s very important for inspiring young people. It’s important for the profile of every country.”
The event, put on by the Ministry of Sports at the Wharf, featured many athletes and officials addressing the audience, including Minister Bernie Bush.
Several speakers expressed gratitude, some shared words of encouragement and others spoke about personal experiences at CARIFTA. Following the speeches, Owen took time to introduce herself and personally encourage a few athletes.
“I was really asking them questions about when they started to get involved in sport; how young were they and how they combine it with their studies,” she said. “I think for all athletes, that is a real challenge and it shows that every athlete has to have a special degree of determination and perseverance.”
Cayman has produced a handful of top-tier athletes over the years, such as Kareem Streete-Thompson and Jordan Crooks.
Owen said while many athletes won’t reach the pinnacle of their sport, being involved, especially growing up, is beneficial.
“It also has a huge role socially,” she said. “Even if you don’t become an elite athlete, getting involved in sports can help you make friends, become more healthy. It’s certainly something that I want to do here in Cayman, walking along the beach and swimming, for example.”
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