Back from a half decade hiatus, the Inter Guiana Games (IGG) returned with a bang with a colorful opening ceremony last night at the National Stadium.
Amid rhythmic and entertaining singing, dancing and steel pan performances, the return of the annual multi-sport showpiece at the world renowned venue was ushered in by Guyana’s Prime Minister, Mark Phillips, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr., Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle along with Suriname’s Minister of Regional Development and Sport, Gracia Emanuel and several other dignitaries.
Guyana’s premier sporting venues are set to come alive from today as the best student athletes from the ‘Guianas’ renew their rivalry with the return of the Games which was last hosted by Suriname in 2017. In excess of 400 athletes and officials from French Guiana, Suriname and hosts, Guyana will be involved in this year’s staging of the annual three-day event.
The National Gymnasium, the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH), the National Aquatic Centre, the National Track and Field Centre and the Racquet Centre are some of the venues which will play host to the nine-discipline fixture.
The disciplines are cycling, track and field, tennis, table tennis, volleyball, football, swimming, basketball and badminton.
The annual event which has fostered several of the Region’s top athletes, was welcomed back by Phillips during the opening ceremony.
in the Inter Guiana Games
“These Games have been a cradle for sports development since in the 60’s. I am happy that we are able to welcome back this grand sporting festival. Being here shows that sport holds a unifying power and I am delighted to be a part of the celebration with some of the most talented athletes.”
Initially held in 1967, the IGG is normally an annual affair among Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana.
Risen from the ashes of COVID-19, this years’ Games will be held under the theme, ‘Building bonds through sport’ and signals to the world that the three territories are open for business and sports.
The return of the Games is a promise fulfilled by His Excellency, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali.
Said Phillips who declared the Games open, “I am looking forward to fierce and fair rivalry at this event that is not only a platform for future stars but cooperation and camaraderie.” Phillips, who warmly welcomed those in attendance to Guyana, added that he was pleased to share the excitement of the return of the Games which helps to build long lasting friendships and friendly rivalry among the cream of the respective country’s student athletes.
Remarks were also made by Ramson Jr., Ninvalle, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Kashif Muhammad, Head of French Guiana’s delegation Mirta Tani and Emanuel.
