The Trinidad and Tobago Olympic Committee (TTOC) has received the news of the passing of the  President of the Pan American Sport Organization (PASO) Mario Vazquez Rana with sadness.

The TTOC extends sincerest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Pan American Sport Organization(PASO) President Mario Vazquez Rana.

President Rana's contribution to the growth and development of the Olympic movement in the Americas is immense , unquestioned and influential .

PASO is in a strong financial position. The organization is highly respected in the global Olympic movement.

Whatever differences of opinions there may have been during his long and illustrious tenure was a reflection of his honesty, integrity, passion , enthusiasm and commitment for the Olympic movement.

The Americas  is preparing to stage its first Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro next year.

The PASO region will also host both the 2018 Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires and the IOC Session at which the host of the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics will be selected in Lima in 2017.

President of PASO since 1975. He has left a strong,dynamic  and vibrant legacy  one that PASO and its member countries will be able to build on in a positive way. The TTOC is deeply appreciative of his outstanding efforts and contribution.

Its the end of an era. May he rest in Peace.

Brian Lewis

President

TTOC