The Comité olympique mauricien (COM) recently hosted a briefing session for the members of Team Mauritius, who will be participating in the Youth Olympic Games (YOG) in Dakar, Senegal, from October 31 to November 13. The session, held at the COM headquarters in Trianon, aimed to prepare the team for the challenges and realities of the event. The team consists of 10 athletes and their coaches, who will be competing in various sports disciplines.
The briefing session covered essential topics, including anti-doping measures, athlete safeguarding, and practical arrangements for the team's stay in Dakar. The COM president, Richard Papie, emphasized the importance of teamwork and the role of the athletes as representatives of Mauritius. He also acknowledged the support of the government, through the Ministry of Youth and Sports, for the team's participation in the games.
The team will be competing in three locations: Dakar, Diamniadio, and Saly. The briefing session provided the athletes and coaches with valuable information on the competition schedule, accommodation, and logistical arrangements. The Chef de Mission, Yousouf Bayjoo, and the COM secretary general, Aarti Desscann, presented the key details of the team's stay in Dakar.
The issue of doping was also a major focus of the briefing session. Dr. Koomaraisen Kistnareddy from the Sports Medical Unit informed the athletes about the anti-doping rules and the precautions they need to take before and during the competitions. The athletes were reminded of their individual responsibility to ensure they do not use any prohibited substances.
Sanjaye Goboodun, president of the Académie nationale olympique, discussed the principles of athlete safeguarding and the importance of maintaining a safe and respectful environment within the team. The athletes were encouraged to report any situations that may compromise their safety or well-being.
The briefing session marked a significant milestone in the preparation of Team Mauritius for the YOG. The COM aims to provide the team with the necessary tools and knowledge to navigate their first Olympic experience successfully. The team will be competing in various sports disciplines, including athletics, badminton, boxing, cycling, fencing, judo, archery, and triathlon.
The Youth Olympic Games in Dakar will feature approximately 4,000 participants from around the world, including athletes, coaches, officials, and dignitaries. The event is historic for the African continent, as it is the first Olympic event to be hosted in Africa. Team Mauritius is ready to take on the challenge and make a positive impact at the games.
Key points
- The COM briefing session equipped Team Mauritius with essential knowledge on anti-doping measures, athlete safeguarding, and logistical arrangements for the YOG.
