Hurdler Brathwaite gets Ambassador status

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) - Hurdler Ryan Brathwaite has been designated the status of Ambassador by the Barbados Government, for his historic achievement at last month's World Championships in Berlin.

BRATHWAITE... wrote his name into the history books when he captured Barbados' first-ever gold medal at a major global event

The honour was announced by Prime Minister David Thompson at a celebratory event staged at Kensington Oval on Thursday, on the athlete's return to the country.

Brathwaite wrote his name into the history books when he captured Barbados' first-ever gold medal at a major global event by capturing the 110 metres hurdles.

"Tonight we dub you an Ambassador for Barbados, Ambassador  His Excellency Ryan Brathwaite," Thompson announced to wild cheering from the packed Oval. "You will become an excellent role model for all of us ."

In addition to conferring the Ambassadorship on Brathwaite, Thompson also said a National Board of Trustees would be created to oversee the hurdler's financial, dietary and professional needs as he prepared for the 2012 Olympics in London.

The Barbados leader said in the past, the country had failed to create the suitable climate to build on the successes of athletes, but assured this would not happen this time around.

"One of the errors we have made as a country with previous athletes is after their initial success we did not create the enabling environment to support their continued training and pursuit of excellence," Thompson said.

"As of Friday (yesterday) I will give instructions for the creation of a National Board of Trustees to oversee your preparation on the road to London.

"This committee will be charged with advising government on the appropriate strategies for enabling you to access the best available professional help in your Olympic preparations for the 2012 Olympics."