Piranhas get approval for centre

DIRECTOR and head coach of Piranha Aquatics Swim Club, Anil Roberts, was presented with a copy of an official document, from the Town and Country Planning Division, by Sports Minister Roger Boynes last Saturday. The document was proof of Government’s approval for the construction of the George Bovell III Aquatic Centre at Powder Magazine, Cocorite. The centre will be built on five acres of land with work due to begin on October 15. Speaking at the Cocorite location, Roberts said it was a great day for Trinidad and Tobago. “When, after 14 years of struggle and fight, the Government has delivered the promise made by George Bovell to train locally,” said Roberts.

Following his record-breaking haul of two gold and two silver medals at the 14th Pan American Games in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, the 20-year-old Bovell indicated that his wish was to train at an olympic-size 50-metre pool, which will also serve as a base for national teams preparing for overseas competitions. However, Roberts was disappointed with the erection of a sign “Life’s a Breeze” at the site, calling it “ugly”. “We have nothing to do with it,” he said, with a hint of anger. “I’m calling on Pearl and Dean (Caribbean Limited) to take it down.” Completion of the centre, which will include a 50m Olympic-sized pool and a 25-metre version, is listed at December 15. The outline application was submitted by the Piranha Club officials on August 29 with the go-ahead given last Thursday.