MARIGOT—The headquarters of the Bodybuilding and Fitness Association of St. Martin (BFASM) was recently inaugurated above J.C.’s Gym in La Savane with a ribbon cutting in the presence of Independent Territorial Councillor, Jules Charville, and Pastor Emile Lawrence.
Member of Parliament Daniel Gibbs had also sent a letter of congratulations.
The ceremony began with remarks from one of the original athletes and long standing BFASM member, Lucien “Siliki” Gamiette who stated how happy and honoured he is to be part of the association for the past six years.
“We have seen what Francois has done in such a short time for the sport and for our athletes,” said Gamiette. “From just one athlete to 12 and counting.”
Gamiette welcomed the new athletes and encouraged them to train hard and stay focused.
Board advisor Jacqueline Hamlet read out Daniel Gibbs’s letter of congratulations and congratulated Francois Carty and his team for its accomplishment in bodybuilding and fitness.
“I wish to congratulate you François and your team for the inauguration of the BFASM office. You have been working tirelessly to promote bodybuilding and fitness on our island, said Hamlet. “Today, your efforts have been rewarded and here will certainly be more rewards in the future. I also would like to congratulate you on your recent achievements. Just to name a few: the BFASM Junior Championship, held last week at the Sandy Ground Cultural Center, and the beginning of the Saturday Boot Camp Training at the Lazy Bay parking lot. And not to mention the trophies that the young women and men you trained have brought home, that make us all very proud!
“I can assure you that I have always and will continue to support you, not only as a healthy, ambitious, orientated and competitive provider of activities for our young people, but also as a promoter of our island abroad, you and your team are great ambassadors of Saint Martin!
“The opening of this facility is surely a milestone in the bodybuilding and fitness of St. Martin, and I wanted to associate myself to this ceremony by delivering you these few words.
This is not about luck, but about hard work. I wish you all strength and perseverance in order to expand your achievements in sports. As we say practice makes perfect. Keep up the faith and good work.”
Jules Charville echoed the same sentiments and recalled discussing with Francois Carty 14 months ago about his dream and passion for the association and promoting the island through sport, and today it has become a reality. He congratulated Francois and his wife and the entire BFASM team for making St. Martin proud every time they go out and represent our Island.
Carty thanked everyone for their kind words and encouragement and reminded them that the six year journey has not been an easy one. He also thanked all those who have been a part of the association as they did their part by welcoming new members.
“As we grow we learn, we make mistakes, we adjust and keep moving forward,” said Carty. This is bigger than you and I. As we look at the task ahead of us for 2016 and beyond, having this office is a big plus for us to plan, stay focused and execute on a more professional level.
“In closing I would like to say thanks to both French and Dutch side governments, sponsors and supporters for believing in our project.”
