WILLEMSTAD - Curaçao is practically ready to debut in Central American and Caribbean games. A delegation with more than 70 people, among which 47 athletes traveling representing nine Sports federations, will arrive in Barranquilla, Colombia.

The regional games will be held from July 19 to August 3, 2018. Curaçao will make its debut as an extraordinary member of ODECABE (Central American and Caribbean Sports Organization).

Minister Marylin Alcala-Walle yesterday, handed over the Flag and the Anthem of Curaçao to the head of the Delegation Ruthsel Martina, and at the same time they were given the extremely beautiful uniforms that the athletes will wear in Colombia.

"Something historical," the president of FDOK, Jean Francisca said. For the first time the Flag of Curaçao will be hoisted in these games. The president added that next year they will continue on to Peru, for the Pan-American Games and that there is no doubt that they will continue until 2020, the date of the Olympic Games. For this reason it is important that our athletes win medals in Barranquilla and next year in Peru," according to the President.

Jean Francisca thanked the government of Curaçao for having contributed 1.3 million guilders, despite the difficult economic situation the country is currently experiencing.

For his part, the head of the Delegation Ruthsel Martina stressed the importance of a good presentation and positive behavior by the delegation. Martina himself participated as an athlete in the past on two occasions. “I want to see how the athletes that will go to Barranquilla to enjoy themselves, compete and put leave behind a very good name for Curaçao.”