“Keen rivalry and fast times” is what is expected when the local leg of the South American 10K Classic is staged tomorrow on the streets of the city.
This is according to Orin Thomas, Vice Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, who spoke during yesterday’s final press briefing ahead of the 19th edition of the event.
Thomas stated that the Athletic Association of Guyana is expecting keen rivalry and some fast times given the hard work done throughout the year by the athletes.
The unlikelihood of any foreign competitor being present due to the ongoing pandemic, will make it an all-Guyanese tussle to the finish.
Usual suspects, Winston Missigher, Cleveland Thomas and Kennard Hartog are expected to match strides for the podium steps.
Last year, the top three spots in the male event went to Missigher, Thomas, and the young Hartog, and it is likely the winner will spring from that trio yet again.
Thomas revealed they are looking in the vicinity of 45 to 50 Guyanese athletes, but there is a slim chance foreigners may arrive to compete.
On this occasion, Cleveland Thomas stated that he is hoping he has what it takes to take first place after what he deemed be a year of hard work, the fruits of which could see him potentially finish at the 31-minute mark.
The National Sports Commission, Banks DIH through its Rainforest and Powerade brands, Star Party Rentals, Guyana Energy, and Benjamin Bakery, are supporting the event.
The top finishers in the senior male and female categories will secure a winner’s prize of US$1,000 with second place claiming US$600 and third US$400 along with trophies. Prizes will also be given in the Junior and Masters divisions.
The race will start at 15:30 hrs on Carifesta Avenue close to GTT’s Earth Station and will proceed along the East Coast Highway and return to finish in the National Park.
