Please find the attached photos taken at the opening ceremony for the MS Amlin World Triathlon Bermuda Festival Weekend last night where the Minister of Social Development of Sports the Hon. Michael Weeks delivered remarks on behalf of the Government of Bermuda.
Minister Weeks said last night, "It is an honour to stand before you today as the Minister of Social Development and Sports to welcome the World Triathlon Series to Bermuda.
"Triathlon athletes and spectators from around the world will get to witness some of the beauty, the warmth and the charming personality of the Island and its people.
"I understand that the course will be a challenging one. Adding to the challenge will be the presence of Bermuda’s Queen of the Triathlon World, Flora Duffy. Rain, blow or shine, no doubt all of Bermuda will be lining the route to give their support to her and all of the participants.
"I take this opportunity to salute all of our local triathlon competitors. In particular, I want to encourage all the young people who will be participating. The world will be watching you closely, and your family and friends will be vigorously supporting you, in the hope that you will one day follow in the footsteps of Flora and all of the elite athletes that will be competing shortly after you.
"By hosting this event, Bermuda is once again showing the world that whilst we may be a mere dot in the Atlantic Ocean, we are indeed world leaders. We are leaders not just in reinsurance and other international business, but we can host and organize international events with the same level of professionalism and finesse that can be found in larger jurisdictions.
"The organizers of this World Triathlon Series event are to be congratulated for hosting and putting on this great event on our shores. To all of our participants, event organizers, flag bearers and volunteers, thank you. Without your support this event will not be the success it is.
"To all our visiting athletes, I wish you success. I wish you well and encourage you to return to our lovely island when you are not competing so that you can fully enjoy the Bermuda experience."