The first ball of this year’s Guyana Telephone and Telegraph (GT&T) 10/10 softball cricket competition was bowled yesterday morning at the Everest Cricket Club Ground, Carifesta Avenue.
After a brief spell of rain Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Frank Anthony and GT&T Central Executive Officer (CEO) Yog Mahadeo took to the field to officially bowl off the tournament.
Displaying their own cricket skills to the teams and members of the public in attendance prior to the opening game Anthony occupied the crease to face a delivery from Mahadeo and drove the ball back past Mahadeo.
Following cheers from the crowd and in brief remarks before the games got underway Anthony stated that his ministry is very proud to be a part of the tournament, which he described as a historic event.
“Last year when we started some people had someskepticism but we’ve shown that with 534 teams last year that we have actually grown and now we have 1224 teams participating.”
He said that this may be the largest tournament in the Caribbean based on the number of teams that registered.
“I’m proud to say that this will be a model for other countries in the region and in all of this sport and the people who participate in sports will be the winner.”
He also encouraged everyone in their respective communities to come out and support the teams.
“Let’s have fun as we play 10/10 soft ball cricket in Guyana,” he said in closing.
Also speaking to the gathering, Mahadeo noted the large number of teams that entered this year’s competition and lauded the tournament’s organizing committee for the job they have done thus far.
He also acknowledged the sponsors and all who are supporting the tournament.
“We playing and we will make things happen,” said Mahadeo, adding that bigger plans may be in place for the competition next year.
“Depending on how the competition goes this year, who knows it can get bigger next year.
“It’s the biggest tournament ever in Guyana and I dare say even beyond Guyana. I don’t think I can recall reading anywhere that over 1200 local teams in any country signed up for a single tournament.”
Meanwhile, 1015 male and 209 female teams have registered to participate in this year’s 10/10 softball tournament, which more than doubles the 20/10 entries of 534 male teams.
The competition will continue at various venues countrywide on weekends and will conclude with the grand final at the Providence National Stadium on April 10.
