International lawn tennis is set to return to Guyana after a hiatus of 30 years as the Guyana Lawn Tennis Association (GLTA) prepares to host Inter Guiana Games (IGG) 2014 later this month.
The tournament, which is scheduled for October 24 and 25 serve to increase the interest and momentum of professional tennis in Guyana.
The tournament is being be organized and executed by the Guyana Tennis Association (GTA) and according to President Grace McCalman, her executive is overcome with enthusiasm. The IGG for tennis is in its third year having been initiated with Suriname’s hosting the event in 2012 and French Guiana’s staging in 2013.
According to McCalman, such event provides a great opportunity for overseas competition at minimal cost compared to the immense financial burden on the association and parents to support players to participate at other Caribbean destinations and she hopes to create more opportunities for competition and development between the three countries.
“The call for sponsorship has been tough and the association is still seeking support to fulfil its obligations, but we express gratitude for donations received so far, from David Persaud Investments, Neal & Massy, Continental Agencies, Sterling Products Ltd, 704 Sports Bar, Metro Office Supplies and Bill Adams.”
In addition, “Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry CEO Mr. John Tracey at the closing ceremony of the GBTI Open 2014, offered strong support for tennis by announcing that he will make the bank’s tennis courts; both at Bel Air Park and Diamond, available for the competition” she disclosed. Each of the three countries will provide twelve players in the male and female divisions: U18s, U14s and U12s with two boys and two girls in each category. Players arrive on Thursday October 23rd and will be greeted with an Opening Ceremony at 6:00pm at the GBTI Bel Air Park venue.
Last year, all three countries won two categories each, but French Guiana took the top position on sets followed by Suriname and Guyana. With a home crowd backing, team Guyana seeks to be dominant on home court. The team will comprise 11 players (11) from the national squad, Boys U18: Daniel Lopes, Khalif Gobin. Boys U14: Keenan Persaud, Mark McDonald, Boys U12: Jordan Beaton, Heimraj Resaul. Girls U18: Nicola Ramdyhan, Aretta Dey, Girls U14: Afruica Gentle, Shivanie Persaud, Girls U12: Kalyca Fraser and Sarah Klautky.
The president is urging the public to come out and support the national team. Admission is free. Some 36 singles matches will be played on October 24 with girls competing at Bel Air Park and boys at Diamond while 18 doubles matches will be played on October 25 with boys at Bel Air and the girls at Diamond. Matches will commence from 8:30am.
