At least one impact from the Victoria Commonwealth Games is still rippling more than 26 years later.
More than 30 Island-based national team or development athletes in triathlon and track and field are receiving $3,000 grants each this month from 94 Forward, which administers the legacy fund from the Victoria Games. The fund is listed as over $20 million.
鈥淭he children of sa国际传媒 and the world need good news and sport can be that good news,鈥� said 94 Forward president John MacMillan.
鈥淗opefully, we can help these athletes on their journey. A safe Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics can happen next summer and we鈥檒l see the Maple Leaf on full display.鈥�
Ken Shields was the first president of the program, then known as the Commonwealth Centre for Sport Development, followed by president Roger Skillings under the name PacificSport. The 94 Forward program, under MacMillan, evolved out of those direct predecessors.
MacMillan said 94 Forward is using a targeted approach, which is why it has focused currently on triathlon and track and field. It has in the past, however, stepped in to help with spot support on an add-needed basis for sports ranging from rowing to field hockey.
鈥淭his [announced grants Saturday] is one of several recent initiatives. We are looking at options for supporting more sports and more programs,鈥� said MacMillan.
鈥淭he excellent management of our legacy fund [headed by chair Chris Trumpy] has increased our options. The 26-year stewardship of this great gift has never been stronger.鈥�
