Digicel and the National Sports Commission (NSC) presented tokens of appreciation yesterday to the athletes and officials who had a successful sojourn at the Special Olympics which was hosted in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
The games which commenced on March 15 and concluded last Thursday saw Guyana capturing five medals – three silver and two bronze – one individual and the other team.
Calvin Thomas took bronze in the 5000 metres while Abdullah Braithwaite got silver in the 400 metres, Faith King and Dacia George won bronze in separate 400 metre events.
The team also earned a bronze in the 4 X 400 metre event. At a presentation ceremony held at the National Resource Centre, the athletes and the officials who accompanied them, received gifts from Digicel, who played a significant role in helping to offset expenses for the event.
They also received tokens from the NSC, including the branded medals reserved for athletes who excel at regional and international meets.
Director of Sport, Christopher Jones, who chaired the formal aspect of the proceedings, also announced that the athletes and officials will enjoy an all-expense paid trip to various destinations along the Essequibo River, facilitated by Old Fort Tours.
Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Social Cohesion, Melissa Tucker, said representing Guyana is a great honour and responsibility, as she offered congratulations on “this exciting accomplishment.”
“The passion, drive and determination of our athletes is unmistakable. All Guyanese athletes made us proud and act as an inspiration not only to young men and women, but all Guyanese,” Tucker said.
Tucker added that government remains committed to ensuring all Guyanese are given an equal opportunity to participate in sports, thereby fostering wellbeing and social cohesion, and promoting talents.
“The National Sports Commission last November during a two-day sports meet with students with disabilities from various schools, reaffirmed their commitment that they will do whatever it takes, and whatever is necessary to ensure students from the special needs schools have the same opportunities to participate in these games,” Tucker explained.
Communications Manager of Digicel Guyana, Vidya Sanichara, hailed the athletes, saying they “did a great job.”
Sanichara said the company is proud to be a sponsor of “this wonderful group that has represented us well.”
