Guyana Mixed Martial Arts Federation (GMMAF) President Gavin Singh has hailed the country’s maiden participation at the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) World Championships, as historic achievement for local sport.
This was disclosed during an exclusive interview with Stabroek Sport.
“This is a historic day for the Co-operative Republic of Guyana in sports and more specifically, Mixed Martial Arts,” said Singh.
He added:“I am truly honoured to serve and deeply appreciative to our coaches Bruce Fraser and Troy Bobb, the team leaders and the planning committee headed by (Troy Phillips), members Sherwin Sandy, Dr. Sawan Jagnairn, Rommel St Hill, Latoya Collins and Roland Fanfair for the dedication, commitment and hard work they invested into making this possible.”
Guyana is being represented by a two-member team of Corwin D’Anjou and Ijaz Cave. D’Anjou yesterday competed in the men’s welterweight division (77.1kg), while Cave will feature in the light heavyweight (93kg) division today.
Singh hailed the international body for its invaluable support, which was pivotal to their participation in the competition.
He expounded, “The support and opportunity given to our Federation from International Mixed Martials Federation has been astounding. In particular, President Kerrith Brown, President Jason Fraser and Gosha London who have gone beyond the call of duty to ensure that our Federation was able to be accredited thus ensuring future participation in the World Championships and the Olympics in the near future.”
Singh also praised the corporate sector for their financial assistance which also aided in team’s involvement and debut at the event. Among the companies that have provided assistance to the team are Acarai Properties, Sandcorp Development, North West Investment Inc., Bounty Farms, Beharry Group of Companies KFC, Banks DIH, WRambarran Services, Paladin Defense, Sublime Security, S&L Decor, Eureka Labs, Zoon Inc., Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Universal Travel and Akbar Inc.
“I only wish to encourage all of our stake holders to continuously working together for the success of Mixed Martials Arts. Thank you Corwin and Cave, continue to keep the Golden Arrow Head flying high and proud”, Singh declared.
Over 500 athletes from more than 50 countries are participating in the championships. The senior and junior nation tournament, which is being hosted by UAE Jiu-Jitsu and MMA Federation in partnership with Palms Sports, will be staged at the Jiu-Jitsu Arena in Zayed Sports City.
Support for the event is also being provided by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council. The event is being broadcast live globally on immaf.tv.
