Paralympic Association renovating John Golding Rehab Centre

The Jamaica Paralympic Association (JPA) is planning a renovation of the Sir John Golding Rehabilitation Centre. This, it says will assist para-athletes to achieve what it describes as optimal performance in their local and international competitions.

The upgrade will include the centre’s clubhouse, basketball court, swimming pool, resting area for athletes, and a walkway for wheelchair users. The JPA says it will modernise the lighting and ventilation systems, revamp the bathrooms, changing rooms, and landscaping. This project will cost over $2 million.

JPA President Christopher Samuda said that the facilities must benefit all stakeholders and that enhancing any sporting facility will appeal to prospective users.

“The upgrade is critical, and the facilities are tools of their trade and laboratories in which they build a base and condition their bodies for competitions,” he said. “The athletes are currently using the facilities while they are being upgraded as work has been scheduled to minimise disruption. Work should be completed by the end of the year.

“Furthermore, one of our strategic and business objectives is to eventually commercialise the clubhouse, which houses our gym and pool so as to make them available to the public on terms. They will be earning assets for the association. That will provide revenue streams, which will assist us in meeting some of our operational expenses.”

WILLING TO INVEST

Samuda says that each sporting organisation requires sponsors and corporations that will be willing to invest in the athletes, facilities, and the future of each sporting discipline in Jamaica.

“Winfield Boban, JPA’s director and head of Surgix (sponsors), who is spearheading the refurbishing, is demonstrating the humanity and conviction that characterises the Paralympic movement and is building hope, cementing dreams, and demonstrating faith in the abilities of our athletes to become the best versions of themselves,” he said.“The clubhouse, from ever since, has been the home of Paralympic leaders and achievers, and Surgix is now a part of its character, and will be of its history.

“Sports needs persons who, and companies which, not only have vision, but will walk the talk and walk with purpose.”

- Athena Clarke