By TENAJH SWEETING

Tribune Sports Reporter

tsweeting@tribunemedia.net

THE Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture in conjunction with the Ministry of Education have officially launched the Frank “Pancho” Rahming Primary School Track and Field Nationals slated for May 21-23 at the original Thomas A Robinson Stadium.

The announcement was made yesterday morning during a press conference at the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture.

The event will feature up to 34 primary schools, hailing from the Family Islands, and 15 schools from New Providence will also be in action next week.

The athletes from ages 5-13 will compete in four divisions - A, B, C and D. The A division is for the 13 and under group, B division is 11 and under, C is 9 and under and D is 7 and under.

Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Mario Bowleg said the collaboration between both ministries indicates the collective commitment to developing the youth in The Bahamas through not only sports but other avenues.

“Our partnership with the Ministry of Education underscores our shared commitment to a holistic development of every child. By integrating sports into the school curriculum, we not only promote physical health but also instil important values such as teamwork, discipline and resilience.

“However, our commitment to youth development extends far beyond the realm of sports.

“While today we are here to prepare to see our young athletes on the track, tomorrow it may be through digital skills programmes, entrepreneurship initiatives and artistic endeavours.

“Regardless of the avenue, our goal remains the same — to empower every child in our country to reach their full potential. As we head into the Frank ‘Pancho’