Barbados visit West Sussex for hockey warm-up

Posted on 01/07/10

West Sussex's relationship with the Barbados Olympic Association has paid early dividends, with the country’s hockey teams visting for a training camp.

The relationship between West Sussex and Crawley, and the Caribbean island saw the men’s and ladies teams of the Barbados Hockey Federation staying in Crawley, while playing three matches each over the weekend at the East Grinstead Sports Club.

The squads arrived in Crawley last Thursday and used the facilities at East Grinstead Sports Club for training and matches. The matches are warm-up games against local teams before a major tournament next month. The 40-strong team left Crawley on Tuesday.

The partnership with the Barbados Olympic Association forms part of the activities of West Sussex-Ahead of the Game, the countywide initiative ensuring West Sussex residents, businesses and communities get the most out of the 2012 Games.

Councillor Lenny Walker, Cabinet member for Leisure and Culture, said: “We are all very excited about the Barbados Olympic team using K2 Crawley in 2012 and delighted that the hockey teams have visited.

“We were keen to foster a good relationship with the Barbados Olympic Association, one that goes beyond a few weeks in 2012. This was the first of what I hope will be many visits and events. I wish the hockey teams well in their forthcoming tournament.”

“This is fantastic for our district and firmly puts us on the map,” said Councillor Pru Moore, Cabinet Member for Leisure and Sustainability at Mid Sussex District Council. “Not only do we have brilliant facilities for the
athletes, but also beautiful surroundings for the team to enjoy".

Deborah Urquhart, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Environment and Economy, said: “This is the first opportunity to come out of the partnership, and we are absolutely delighted to be working closely with another country during the preparation for the 2012 Games."