Ephraim Penn is a pivotal figure in the development of sports in the Caribbean. Serving as the President of the British Virgin Islands Olympic Committee (BVIOC) since 2008, his influence extends beyond national borders through his roles as the national representative of the National Anti-Doping Organization and as a member of the Executive Committee of the Caribbean Regional Anti-Doping Organization. His recent election as President of the Association of National Olympic Committees of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (ANOCES) underscores his commitment to advancing regional sports.
Penn has been an unwavering advocate for Olympic ideals, championing both grassroots and elite sports. His leadership has facilitated the implementation of innovative programs, the reconstruction of sports facilities, and the adoption of national policies that benefit athletes and communities alike.
SPORTING CAREER
Before becoming a sports leader, Penn had a distinguished career as an athlete. He represented the British Virgin Islands in athletics at the 1976 CARIFTA Games and the 1975 Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Championship. Later, as a member of the national softball team, he competed in the 1987 Pan American Games and the 1993 CAC Games.
His experience as an athlete has provided him with a solid foundation to understand athletes’ needs and design effective strategies for their development. This practical approach has made him a role model for other sports leaders in the region.
CAREER AND CONTRIBUTIONS TO SPORTS DEVELOPMENT
Since his election as BVIOC President in 2008, Penn has spearheaded impactful initiatives. He established the Elite Athletes Program in collaboration with the Ministry of Sports and actively contributed to drafting the National Sports Policy for the British Virgin Islands. He also leads the Long-Term Athlete Development Steering Committee and played a key role in implementing the Physical Literacy Program in preschools and primary schools.
After the devastating Hurricane Irma, Penn secured support from Panam Sports to rebuild sports facilities, showcasing his ability to manage crises and strengthen his country’s sports infrastructure.
INTERNATIONAL REPRESENTATION
Penn has been a prominent voice on the international sports stage. From 2019 to 2023, he served as the Caribbean Representative on the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) Sports Committee. In April 2021, he joined the Panam Sports Technical Commission, where he continues to promote sports development across the region.
His recent election as ANOCES President highlights his leadership in the Eastern Caribbean. In this new role, Penn is committed to collaborating with other leaders to bolster regional cooperation and support athletes in their pursuit of sports excellence.
RECOGNITION AND FUTURE PROJECTION
Penn’s election as ANOCES President marks a milestone in his career and reaffirms his dedication to the Olympic movement. Under his leadership, ANOCES aims to strengthen the Eastern Caribbean sports community by working closely with National Olympic Committees to promote inclusion and excellence.
Additionally, ANOCES has announced strategic plans to be discussed in Panama City, including the Centennial of the Centro Caribe Sport. With Ephraim Penn at the helm, the future of sports in the region looks promising and geared toward sustainable development.
