In excess of 1500 student athletes and teachers from across Guyana will converge in the city to compete in the 54th edition of the National Schools Cycling, Swimming and Track and Field Championships which starts on Tuesday.
The National Aquatic Centre, the open roads and the Camp Ayanganna ground will be buzzing with activities as the students and teachers from the 15 districts battle for medals and one year’s bragging rights.
During the official launch of the event yesterday at the Ministry of Education (MOE), President of the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU), Mark Lyte said all the districts were ready to compete.
“I wish to say that we have been able to work along with the ministry to ensure that we conduct events at all the levels before like the Inter Zones, so all the districts are ready to compete in the National Championships,” said Lyte.
“The GTU is indeed pleased to be playing a significant role in the running off of the championships. Preparations are being made for the officials and other stakeholders to be part of the championships so that we can indeed have a successful edition in 2014,” he added.
The GTU head said because it was a yearly activity, he was encouraging the public “to come out and enjoy and support the event.
“Teachers, the students and the districts are all excited to put on a show,” Lyte added.
Chief Education Officer of the Ministry of Education, Olato Sam thanked the sponsors (Banks DIH Limited, DDL, Courts, and Giftland Office Max etc.) for partnering with the annual fixture. He also encouraged other corporate entities to support the event.
“This is an event that can mould the athletes and their development forward and I would like to encourage others to begin to recognize the importance of the National Championships and throw their lot in. We expect this year’s event to be even better than the calibre that we have had over the years.”
Sam then divulged that major changes are in store for the betterment of the championships from next year.
“At the end of this year’s event we will sit down and draft a plan of how we can make it even better for next year. I can promise the national public that we will have significant changes to what they are accustomed to at the end of this cycle.
“We have agreed to sit down and commit ourselves to a better product,” Sam assured.
DDL was represented by Larry Wills who pointed out that “Gatorade is used by the best athletes around the world.” Wills added that “Our young and extremely competent athletes should be given that opportunity as well to maximize their performances.
“We (DDL) look forward to seeing these athletes displaying a high level of discipline at the championship.”
He then wished the GTU and the MOE a competitive and successful championship.
Similar sentiments were echoed by Banks DIH’s representative, Errol Nelson.
On Tuesday, the ball gets rolling with the 40km cycling road race, the 10km road race along with the swimming championships.
On Wednesday at the ground, the opening ceremony will commence at 09:00hrs. This will be followed by the track and field and cycling events. (Emmerson Campbell)
